Our Director Prof Tracy Hussell appeared on BBC Radio Manchester with Michelle Dignan this morning to discuss the Omicron variant, the impact on cases within Manchester, the risks posed to the NHS, the cut to self-isolation to 7 days for those with a negative test result and how to stay safe over the Christmas period if you or a loved one contracts Covid. 

When asked what no new restrictions before Christmas might mean for infection rates in the New Year Prof Tracy Hussell explained:

“Some people say it’s a short-term gain to continue without further restrictions.

The impact on the hospitals will likely be in the New Year but there’s still uncertainity on the severity of Omicron. Also don’t forget when the (infection) surge goes it also impacts NHS staff, so you end up with an NHS staff shortage along with more patients in hospital “

You can listen to the interview here

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