THURROCK Council's leader has called on residents in the borough to stick with and participate in Covid-19 guidelines - even though he recognises the frustrations they bring.

In a message to residnets, Cllr Rob Gledhill says: "On Monday the government lifted most of the legal restrictions which had been created to slow and stop the spread of coronavirus. Although this is the end of lockdown it is by no means the end of the pandemic.

"Now it is up to all of us to keep on playing our part in keeping the virus in check and doing what we can to protect ourselves, each other and our health services. One of the most effective ways we can do this is by taking up the offer of a vaccine and making sure we complete the course by getting the second dose.

"The vaccine is highly effective at preventing you from contracting and transmitting COVID-19. It also offers 90% protection against anyone becoming seriously ill and requiring hospital treatment as a result of catching the virus.

"We have once again seen big increases in the number of people testing positive over the last week. The rate of infection in Thurrock is doubling roughly every six days and we are now seeing over 300 positive cases per 100,000 with other parts of the country at rates of over 1,000. However, largely thanks to the tremendous take up of the vaccine we have seen locally, this is not translating into hospitalisations.

"Despite the lifting of legal restrictions there is still a vital role for hands, face, space, fresh air guidance. There is also still an important role for testing, especially young people and anyone who has to go out for work.

"I know there is huge frustration from people who are getting 'pinged' by the NHS COVID-19 app and having to self-isolate but it is important that we continue to do so. It is possible to spread the virus without having any symptoms.

"One in three people infected do not have any symptoms at all and there could be a delay between you being infected and displaying symptoms, yet they will still be infectious and can spread the virus, and possibly life-threatening illness, to others.

"Self-isolation and getting tested to find out if you have the virus are still both vitally important.

"Any action we can take to stop the spread of coronavirus will help us to keep life moving as we follow the pathway through summer before the government reassess ahead of autumn."