The UK COVID alert level lowers from Level 4 to Level 3 but the UK’s chief medical officers warn: “It does not mean that the pandemic is over.”
Under level 3, the virus is considered to be “in general circulation” and there could be a “gradual relaxation of restrictions” due to this.
The decision to reduce the alert level followed a recommendation by the Joint Biosecurity Centre, the chief medical officers for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland said.
“There has been a steady decrease in cases we have seen in all four nations, and this continues,”
But they have warned that “does not mean that the pandemic is over” and that “localised outbreaks are likely to occur”.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “The UK moving to a lower alert level is a big moment for the country, and a real testament to the British people’s determination to beat this virus.”
“The government’s plan is working. Infection rates are rapidly falling, we have protected the NHS and, thanks to the hard work of millions in our health and social care services, we are getting the country back on her feet.”
Level 3 is when the epidemic is in general circulation and gradual easing of restrictions can happen, while level 2 the next step is when the number of cases and transmission is low and “no or minimal” restrictions are required.
