Joint statement on current Covid-19 situation locally.

A statement from the Elected Mayor of Watford and the Leaders of Hertsmere Borough Council and Three Rivers District Council on current Covid-19 situation

Councillor Morris Bright MBE, Councillor Sarah Nelmes and Elected Mayor, Peter Taylor urge everyone in Hertsmere, Three Rivers and Watford to pull together to tackle the threat posed by rising Covid-19 cases and to do what is necessary to prevent further restrictions and possible lockdown.

We are entering a critical phase of the Covid-19 pandemic.  Across all of our areas more and more people are testing positive with the virus. We are also seeing the impact of these increasing infection rates on Watford General Hospital as people from our communities are falling seriously ill and are needing hospital care.

We know that this virus has already taken the lives of many loved ones in Hertsmere, Three Rivers and Watford and we must act now to keep our communities safe, reduce the strain on our precious local health services and prevent the need for further restrictions in our areas.  These restrictions would limit people being able to see friends and family and put another major pressure on our local businesses just when they are doing all they can to keep going and protect people’s jobs and livelihoods.

We have a small window to make a difference.  Covid-19 continues to pose a big risk to ourselves and those we come into contact with, especially the most vulnerable in our communities.  We must do all that we can to protect people and help keep the numbers under control.

It is vital that we all:

• Limit contact with other people
• Follow the guidance on meeting with family and friends
• Wash our hands regularly
• Wear a face covering whenever required
• Keep our distance from others.

All three councils continue to work closely with Hertfordshire County Council, other Hertfordshire districts and boroughs, our partners in the NHS and other emergency services to do everything we can to halt the spread. But we cannot do this alone.  Ultimately, there is a role for everyone here and now is the time to step up and all do our bit for Hertsmere, Three Rivers and Watford.