We must "cut off the fuel supply of this virus" to stem the spread of Covid 19, says Nottinghamshire health chief

The Tier 3 restrictions are aimed at limiting social contact to stem the impact of the second wave of the virus.

In a briefing on Friday morning, it was reported the county had seen a “significant increase” in hospitalisations, particularly among the over 60s. There have been 49 Covid 19 deaths recorded between July and August in Sherwood Forest Trust hospitals.

Photos show Mansfield town centre on first day of new tier 3 covid restrictions

Jonathan Gribbin director of public health for Nottinghamshire said: “We’re seeing high and increasing cases across the county, it is imperative that we underline the importance of sticking to the measures, the very high alert package of restrictions.

"We must all apply ourselves, stick to the rules, it isn’t going to be easy. We understand people’s concerns, and particularly those of the business sector.

“But we must limit social contact to cut off the fuel supply of the virus, it is the only way to curb the rising trajectory of cases. We ask the public to get behind theses measures, it is a big ask, but it is our best chance to reduce the spread of the virus which is a threat to our NHS and health care systems.

Dr Andy Haynes, Medical Director at Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said: “It’s a significant and serious situation.

"The second wave looks different to the first, it has come very quickly with increasing numbers of people affected, particularly the over 60s. Half of people in hospital need equipment to help their breathing. Our health services are likely to be under significant pressure.

“The speed of the spread is striking, we are now on a par with places like Liverpool. The next three weeks are critical. We have surge plans in place but individuals’ efforts can make a difference.”

The latest Covid-19 cases in every Mansfield neighbourhood as Nottinghamshire enters Tier 3 lockdown

Mr Gribbin added: “By sticking to the rules now, it offers us the best chance to look get the rules relaxed by the end of the period in the weeks leading to Christmas.”