One doctor’s advice on how to have a safe and happy Christmas in 2021

During the festive season, the Government and NHS are asking everyone to continue to take measures in order to help reduce the spread of Covid-19 while also having a happy Christmas.

As part of its festive campaign ‘Let’s Stay Safe This Festive Season’, GP Dr Ellie Cannon shares their advice on how to have a great time while carrying out actions that will keep us all safe by helping reduce the spread of Covid-19.

This festive guidance includes:

• Testing before meeting people and reporting your result
• Isolating and booking a PCR test if you have symptoms
• Wearing a face covering on public transport and in shops
• Opening windows to let fresh air in when friends and family are over
• And getting your Covid-19 booster vaccine if you are aged 18+

According to the latest figures, coronavirus infection rates have gone up in all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester.

Figures released by the UK Health Security Agency for the week ending 18 December show that Trafford continues to have the highest coronavirus infection rate in the city region. The borough recorded 1,176 cases per 100,000 people.

Currently, the lowest infection rate is in Wigan, where the rate is 598.1 cases per 100,000.