Shielding not needed yet, despite case increases

Despite the rising levels of coronavirus cases across most of the nation, government advisors have said that shielding is not being reintroduced in England.

Warning that people should take precautions to avoid getting coronavirus, the advisors say that, unlike in March, there are other protective measures in place - such as the rule of six and the wearing of face coverings in shops - to help reduce the spread.

Those who were previously on the shielding list will receive a letter about the advice with tips on how they should do this.

Despite some reports, shielding advice will not automatically be triggered by an area going into tier three, as announced by the Prime Minister in his latest address. However, it may be reintroduced in the future in hotspot areas in exceptional circumstances.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England Dr Jenny Harries said: "Whilst advisory, I would urge all those affected to follow the guidance wherever they can and to continue to access health services for their medical conditions.

"We will continue to monitor the evidence closely and fine-tune this approach to make sure everyone in this group is clear about the safest way to go about their daily lives, particularly over the coming winter months."