York Central MP, Rachael Maskell urges residents to continue taking all possible precautions to once again bring infection rates back under control in York now that the city has moved into Tier 3. Following a period of sustained low infection rates, York, like elsewhere in the country has seen a third peak in infection. It is not yet known if the new strain of Covid19 is responsible for this, however it was observed that the streets were busier than normal, and many people were not wearing face coverings or keeping a minimum of 2m apart. Many people have visited York from Tier 3 areas, and Rachael Maskell is following this up with the Home Secretary, as police do not have powers to enforce the guidance.

It is so important that everyone complies with the Hands-Face-Space guidance as this remains the best way to protect yourself and others from infection. No-one likes keeping apart or wearing a face mask, however our NHS staff are having to wear full PPE so we should remember them when we don’t feel like wearing a mask, they have no choice.

“Like Christmas, New Year is a time we like to go out and celebrate, not least at the end of this really challenging year, however we must refrain, and instead do the safe thing. It is not the time to pop round to the homes of friends either. We know household to household infection still is the highest reason why Covid19 is spreading, now with this new strain, we must be more cautious than ever.

“As we enter the New Year, we will all have many questions outstanding. Please let me know your concerns so that I can put them to Government. Businesses are struggling and we are all weary, however there is a lot of help and support available for all who are finding this a challenging period, whether financially, emotionally or socially. I know that we can all make this one last effort to work together to get infection rates down again and then support each other as we start to rebuild York in 2021.

“With the vaccine programme rolling out, we have hope on the horizon. I wish you a happier, safer and peaceful New Year.”