Christmas shoppers urged to be vigilant over fears crowds could lead to further Covid-19 deaths
Christmas shoppers have been urged to avoid crowded shops by leaders in Sandwell amid fears it could lead to a spike in Covid-19 deaths.
Police chiefs said they had seen social distancing "break down" as people flocked to stores which reopened earlier this month after lockdown.
Now they – alongside council chiefs – have called on people to be vigilant amid fears crowded shops could lead to an increase in deaths in the borough.
Dr Lisa McNally, director of public health at Sandwell Council, said: "If we spend time in busy shops then we are at real risk of being infected with coronavirus.
"Covid-19 is a potentially serious illness. We are very concerned that infections to shoppers will increase hospitalisations and deaths over the coming weeks.
"Even if we are younger and less prone to serious illness, an infection caught while shopping can be passed on to a loved one with serious consequences.
"For everyone’s sake, we should avoid busy shops as much as possible and make sure we keep our distance from others."
Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy leader of the authority, urged people to make responsible choices to help protected their vulnerable loved ones over the festive period.
She said: "Shops have suddenly become crowded and we’ve seen many examples of failure to keep to social distancing and face covering rules.
"It’s one thing to know what you can do – but sometimes quite another thing to know what you should do. Please make responsible choices. When we’ve come this far, is it worth the risk?
Enforcement
"Vulnerable people will be just as vulnerable over Christmas. Our situation remains very serious and we need to continue to keep ourselves, our loved ones and our community safe.
"Wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and stay two metres apart from anyone you don't live with – including in shops."
Superintendent Martin Hurcomb from West Midlands Police said the force would be working closely with the council to identify irresponsible businesses.
He said: "We have seen social distancing break down as Christmas shopping gets under way.
"We can’t afford to tolerate a breakdown of social distancing just because it’s Christmas and it is up to them to make sure this is happening in their stores.
"If we find shops and businesses are crowded where social distancing has broken down we will back enforcement action by the council."
