News

“Any decision on offering a booster jab later this year, to protect our most vulnerable from variants and flu ahead of winter, will be supported by councils and their directors of public health in our collective national effort to end the pandemic."

"Whilst we are all keen to get back to normal as soon as possible, we all still need to remain vigilant and use common sense wherever necessary."

COVID-19’s expected long-term health impact needs to be recognised in future public health and social care planning.

"Investing in drug prevention and treatment now will reap benefits for everyone longer-term, including for the NHS, criminal justice and other public services."

Councils, which are responsible for public health services, are committed to continue supporting people with alcohol and other substance misuse problems despite ongoing pressures made worse by the pandemic.

"It is clear that the current high prevalence of COVID-19 has resulted in large numbers of close contacts being required to self-isolate, which is placing pressure on some council services due to staff shortages. Most councils have been able to keep services running but there is a concern that, if rates increase further, many will be forced to prioritise services that protect the most vulnerable in their communities."

Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, responds to the publication of government guidance on exemptions from self-isolation for critical workers.

“COVID-19 has cruelly exposed and exacerbated the many social and health problems which existed before the pandemic, that need to be urgently addressed as part of our national recovery."

Cllr David Fothergill, responds to the announcement of Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy as the new Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England and the formal launch of the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities.

LGA responds to Public Health England’s annual sexually transmitted infections (STI) data for 2020, which show a decline in the number of people attending and testing positive for STIs.