As summer kicks into full gear, the urge to get our lives back to normal is strong— but cases of COVID-19 are still on the rise both nationally and in Ealing. Residents are being reminded to take simple, effective steps to protect themselves and loved ones this summer.

Get vaccinated and get your booster dose

The best way of staying safe and protected against COVID-19 this summer is to get vaccinated, so make sure you stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. For more information visit the coronavirus pages on the council’s website.

Anyone aged 12 years or over can get a first, second, third or booster jab at CP House in Ealing or selected local pharmacies without an appointment.

All children aged between five and 11 years old are being offered two doses, which they can get at a pop-up clinic or by booking through the NHS website. Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian to give consent.

Let fresh air in if meeting others indoors

The biggest risk of COVID-19 transmission is airborne. Bringing a good supply of fresh air into a room by opening a door or a window, even for a few minutes at a time, can help to dilute and disperse the virus, helping to reduce the risk of spread. This is especially important when meeting others indoors this summer.

Meeting outdoors greatly reduces this risk.

Good hygiene will help to protect you and others from COVID-19 this summer, as well as many other common infections:

• Cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze
• Wash or sanitise your hands
• Clean your surroundings.

Wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces

The council’s public health officers are encouraging residents to consider wearing face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, such as in the supermarket, on public transport or at a summer event. Wearing a face covering can reduce the number of particles containing viruses that are released from the mouth and nose of someone who is infected with COVID-19. Face coverings can also protect the person wearing the face covering from becoming infected by some viruses.

Residents are being reminded to be mindful and considerate towards other people’s choices around wearing face masks.

Get tested

This summer, it is still recommended that you get tested before you go to places with a lot of people, or areas that have little ventilation. You can buy testing kits at most pharmacies and online.