17 December 2021

Covid update - 17 December

As all members will know, the UK is now at Covid Alert Level 4 because of the Covid omicron variant. At this stage of the pandemic, we advise members to:

• Continue to follow the College's amber phase guidance and keep up to date with its FAQs
• Repeat IPC training for all team members
• Consider refresher training and tips on mitigating the risk of infection when not at work
• Ensure team members have access to lateral flow tests (LFTs). There were some supply issues earlier this week after a surge in demand, but online orders are now working again. You can also pick up test kit packs from local collection points/ pharmacies.

It is also important to remain up to date with self-isolation guidance for healthcare staff.

• NHS England has sent this letter which sets out detailed guidance
• In Northern Ireland the guidance is being reviewed but will be accessible here shortly
• NHS Inform sets out the rules in Scotland
• The Welsh Government advice can be found here.

Most primary eye care staff will by now be fully vaccinated (including with a booster vaccine) which is welcome news. This, along with robust IPC measures including social distancing, PPE and hand and cough/sneeze hygiene, should help protect team members and patients throughout the winter.
 
However, if infection rates continue to increase, staff shortages will be hard to avoid, so members should put contingency measures in place wherever possible.
 
Please get in touch if you have any questions or need support.