Lockdown has ‘slowed’ advance of COVID-19

Dr. Tom Black said that compliance with and support for social distancing and hygiene guidelines have resulted in reduced numbers of people being infected with coronavirus.

“This, in turn, has meant our hospitals can cope and our GP practices have not been overwhelmed,” he told the ‘Journal’.

However, Dr. Black, who is chairman of the British Medical Association in NI, also acknowledged that the past number of weeks have been “extremely difficult” for everyone.

“Limitations on how we work, live and socialise have affected everyone and there is no doubt it is taking a toll on our mental health, economy and on our children,” he said.

“However, the alternative - with huge numbers ill, hospitalised and dying from COVID 19 - does not bear thinking about.”

Dr. Black said he also understood that people wanted to know how and when the crisis will end.

“As the Chief Medical Officer for England has stated, we cannot just flick a switch and go back to ‘normal’; there are likely to be significant changes to how we live our life for the foreseeable future.

“I would, therefore, encourage people to continue to follow the rules around not going out apart from for essential shopping or medical appointments and for some daily exercise.”

Meanwhile, another Derry GP has warned people against unnecessary travel ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend.

Dr. Paul Molloy, who, alongside Dr. Black and other doctors and nurses, is working in the COVID assessment centre at Altnagelvin Hospital, said it was important that the necessary levels of protection for the population are maintained.

“Irrespective of your age and health, the more people mix, the greater are the chances of the numbers of COVID-related illnesses rising again,” he said.

“With the bank holiday coming, it is important to remember that you stay in your home or near it, unless needed. It is not advised at present to go to holiday homes. It puts you and the people there at risk. The same rules apply for movement in both directions across the border.”