Gov't publishes Covid-19 Winter framework

Government has released its '2021 winter framework' for dealing with Covid-19.

It builds from the latest document 'Learning to live in a world with Covid-19' published in September, with officials admitting the virus is likely to be with us - in some form - for years to come.

The document says winter presents 'additional pressures' to the Island, our NHS and our Covid response due to indoor mixing, additional respiratory illnesses and the potential of reduced effectiveness from vaccines over time. 

The framework primairly outlines: minimising the harm and disruption caused by Covid, supporting people in making informed choices, mitigating against uncontrolled transimission and being prepared to intervene.

It involves 3 different levels of response; individual responsibility, increased mitigations, and legal intervention. 

However, officials say it's their hope Island life can continue as normal throughout the next five months - through to the end of March 2022.

Level 1 highlights promoting and delivering vaccinations, boosters and third doses - as well as the "Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air" mantra.

It states free lateral flow tests will continue to be provided - and claims 90% of all cases over the last three months have been initialyl confirmed through one of these tests. 

The document says regular testing, twice a week - will greatly help avoid transmission.

Level 2 focuses on if winter pressures increase risks to our health and care provision - this means face coverings will be expected to be worn in partciular settings, gov't may ask people to avoid unnecessary household mixing and workplaces may be asked to increase the frequency of self-testing - alongside working home where possible.

Level 3 - which the government hopes isn't required may include a full range of interventions such as making face coverings mandatory, working from home being a legal requirement, as well as introducing social distancing and restricting certain activities. 

If health and care services become overwhelmed, a new variant threatens the effect of the vaccine or there is significant disruption to the Island's economic and social infrastructure, the legal requirement listed above will come into place.

The main principles of the plan include being prepared to intervene early and maintaining clear and relevant communications.

The government adds  maintaining children's education and delivering the vaccination programme are priorities throughout winter.

Chief Minister Alf Cannan insists government doesn't want to intervene in people's lives:

Mr Cannan also explained why the document has been published: