Impact on daily life

Impact. 12^th January
Desperate situation
According to all the experts, the virus situation has been getting worse and will be more difficult in the next weeks.
The figures support their views.  There are over 32 thousand people in hospital with Covid – that is many more people than in the first wave in April and May last year.  The hospitals are struggling with not enough staff because of illness.  There are reports that they may not have enough oxygen to help people with breathing problems.  The Government briefings are very grim.
Vaccine rollout
At the same time the Government claims they will have vaccines to all people over 70 years and all vulnerable people by the middle of February.  It is not yet clear that there will be enough vaccine in time.  They say there have been 2.3 million people who have the vaccine.  There are also large centres opening; and pharmacy (chemist) shops will be able to give the vaccine.  There is also a large list of thousands of people who want to learn how to give the vaccine.  Government says this all positive.
Stay at Home
The Government message is clear – you have to follow the rules.  But Boris was out cycling 7 miles from his house and then Monday he travelled to Bristol so he could appear on TV at the new big vaccination centre at the football ground.  Police say many people are ignoring the rules and there are illegal parties.  They give out a lot of £200 fines.  Other people say that people are still chatting in the street and in parks – too close together and not wearing masks.  And the schools are open, as well.  Looks like more severe lockdown is coming.