Column: New lockdowns are a worry as I emerge from isolation in Sheffield

Of course, some are bit too close for comfort, being in Manchester and West Yorkshire. However, for me and others shielding locally, we can emerge from self-isolation and make tentative steps to live again, albeit still social distancing and where mandatory wearing masks.

However, the reimposition of restrictions in the above areas could take the shine off our new-found freedoms.

The question is should we be unduly perturbed or indeed surprised as we recall we were advised that such measures could take place if there were localised outbreaks?

The answer is probably a cautious no as there were criticism that the Leicester lockdown was imposed too late and now there is criticism that the recent ones in neighbouring areas was too quickly implemented and communication not as effective, particularly given the short notice.

Whatever school of thought you are in, the good thing was that, having seen some local spikes in coronavirus, action was initiated to institute remedial measures. Very unfortunate for those planning belated weddings and businesses affected at short notice, though.

I can start to contemplate doing mundane but necessary shopping trips which hopefully my hard-pressed family, who were undertaking those duties, can get a break from now.

I have just come back from an independent opticians in Millhouses and was impressed how she dealt with me in a most hygienic and secure environment possible, very reassuring.

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This reminded me, taking the worse case scenario, if a increase in cases did occur we will be better placed than we were at the outset.

We are now used to social distancing and, whilst not everyone’s cup of tea, used to wearing masks as appropriate. An NHS learning from the outbreaks will be even better prepared for a re-emergence of Covid-19.

Work to find a vaccine will continue at pace to tackle future pandemics and most of will have access to the flu vaccine, to assist us not being more more susceptible.

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