Preparing for Lockdown 2.0

COVID-19 cases are increasing again here in the U.K., and government officials can no longer prioritize improving the economy over protecting people’s health.

Instead, they must acknowledge the toll the virus has taken on people and the pressure a high number of cases will place on the National Health Service (NHS). Higher infection rates mean more hospitalizations, overworked NHS staff, and fewer beds and equipment available for treating patients.

Authorities cannot ignore the gravitas of the situation, so they have imposed another lockdown in an attempt to reduce the virus’s spread.

U.K. residents must follow a new set of restrictions that start on Nov. 5 and extend to Dec. 2. Nonessential businesses will be closed again, and we will have to stay at home within our household bubbles.

When there was a reduced number of coronavirus cases last summer, the government introduced the “Eat Out to Help Out” program. Customers received 50% off their bill by dining in at participating restaurants while following social distancing guidelines. Rather than caution people to stay home, authorities encouraged businesses to reopen. It makes sense that the virus would continue to spread.

I am not happy with the way the U.K. has dealt with this situation. The hesitation by officials to enforce tighter restrictions has been to the detriment of its citizens. We look to our leaders to advise and guide us in the hopes that their decisions are for the good and health of the people. However, it does not seem as if our health is the priority.

The guidance we receive sounds more like suggestions than instructions. It makes the situation seem less serious than it actually is, and people act accordingly. They become more comfortable and relaxed about social distancing, washing their hands frequently, and using facial coverings.

People like me who are clinically vulnerable have been advised to minimize our contact with others. I will start sheltering in place again, though I am not looking forward to it.

This pandemic has felt like a nightmare, and I have been waiting to wake up for months now. Hopefully, the number or cases in the U.K. will drop again during lockdown, and everyone’s safety will improve.

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Note: Sickle Cell Anemia News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Sickle Cell Anemia News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to sickle cell anemia.