The Government has provided a road map for England as we ease out of lockdown. Specific guidelines will be shared as we pass through each phase of the lockdown. The current guidance for individuals who are considered to be clinically extreme is to continue to shield.
Health experts have identified specific medical conditions as clinically extremely vulnerable, and places some people at greatest risk of severe illness from COVID-19. These include people:
Being on the shielding list, means you'll get relevant letters from the government, which act as proof for your employer that you are clinically extremely vulnerable, and can't go to work in some very high-risk areas. You should also have been prioritised for receiving your COVID-19 vaccination.
If you have not received any letters or notifications about the vaccine, please contact your GP to ensure their records are accurate.
Remember the main ways to avoid catching coronavirus:
These are still the main ways to avoid catching coronavirus.
If those you live with also do these things when they are out, they will reduce their risk of catching coronavirus. Other practical things that can reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus at home include:
You might also want to ask your family to get washed and changed when they get home from being out. We don't know how much this can reduce the risk, but it may help.
For people in England, Wales and Norther Ireland shielding advice is due to pause on 1st April 2021. Until then, clinically extremely vulnerable people are being advised not to go out to work, shops or pharmacies, but you can go outside for exercise.
In Scotland, most of the country is in lockdown (Level 4), except for some islands that remain at Level 3. In Level 4 areas, clinically extremely vulnerable people are being advised not to go out to work until 26th April 2021. You will be sent a 'fit note' by the Chief Medical Officer to show your employer.