Millions could be asked to shield again

Reports have claimed that millions of people who are at risk of serious illness from coronavirus could be asked to start shielding again if infection rates continue to rise.

The Daily Telegraph reports that the new programme will initially target those living in areas with dangerous levels of coronavirus, but continues to quote an anonymous official as saying it could be applied to the whole of England if necessary.

If plans telling the most vulnerable either to stay at home or to follow advice specifically tailored to their health conditions are carried out, it is likely to affect up to 4.5 million people – more than double the number who were asked to shield at the start of the lockdown in March.

Meanwhile, the government has warned care home providers in England of a rise in new coronavirus infections within the sector. Following a further 3,330 positive cases on 13 September, the letter from the Department of Health urged care bosses to take ‘necessary action to prevent and limit outbreaks’.

Three councils in the northeast – Newcastle, Gateshead and Sunderland – have already asked care homes to cancel family visits because of an increase in cases. According to ITV, Worcestershire County Council, Wolverhampton City Council, Caerphilly in Wales and parts of Coventry have done the same.