Covid-19 has taught us not only about sorrow, isolation and aerosol transmission, but also to celebrate small marks of progress. From today, two households or groups of up to six people can meet outdoors in England as the stay-at-home order finally comes to an end.
There is more good news for outdoor revellers. Tennis courts and golf courses will reopen, and for those who have not had enough of the cold, the Hampstead Heath ponds (today’s temperature: 8C) is again welcoming swimmers.
We are even set to get a sneak peek at summer. Warm air from the continent could see temperatures reach as high as 25C this week. But we cannot discard our winter coats nor our caution just yet.
There is still a long way to go in our battle to defeat coronavirus. While this long lockdown and the vaccination programme have led us away from those awful January days, the virus remains a formidable foe.
In the last seven days, the UK recorded 437 deaths within 28 days of a positive test. That is down on the previous week, but still far too many and a reminder that Covid-19 is a hugely contagious and potentially fatal virus.
So when you are offered a vaccine dose — first or second — take it. The jab is safe, efficacious and our best route to normality. We also know that Europe’s third wave will come to our shores. Getting vaccinated is the best way to maintain our newly regained freedoms.
We also welcome the Government’s new slogan: “Hands, face, space and fresh air.” This is not just more helpful than the much-derided “Stay Alert” message of last year, it is absolutely fundamental.
The chances of contracting Covid-19 is vastly lower outdoors than in — another reason to safely enjoy these few days of early summer previews.
