Coronavirus: Public needs to hear clear messages on virus so that we can stay the distance

On looking down to the promenade I could see that it was extremely busy with people, young and old, taking advantage of the sunshine but paying scant regard to Government advice about “social distancing,” mixing freely with fellow walkers, (some pushing buggys), cyclists and dog walkers.

As someone who regularly visits this area and was aware of current ­guidance, I was concerned that so many were ignoring it and, in so doing, were potentially putting, not just their own, but others’ lives at risk.

Having seen what was happening I wanted to hear what Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Frank Ross, made of it all and if he wanted to offer some comment.

He recognised that it was an extremely unsettling time for everybody but was confident that, given the current ‘lockdown’ conditions, the spread of the virus will be slowed, the impact will be reduced and that lives will be saved. In his message to the city he said: “I am aware that we all have serious concerns about the impact of coronavirus and what it will mean for your family, your health, your job and your family finances. I want to reassure you that the council is completely focused on preparing for what lies ahead over the next days, weeks and coming months. We’re doing everything we can to keep vital services running and keep residents informed via regular briefings and ensuring the best levels of support.”

He implored the public to listen and act on the new measures by staying at home as far as possible and follow the advice of medical experts which would do most to protect the most vulnerable and those essential workers who continue to support the city. He paid tribute to NHS staff in particular, many of whom are working in extremely trying conditions, putting themselves in harm’s way to administer care and comfort to Covid-19 patients. He stressed the need to take the appropriate personal action to minimise the risk that the NHS will get overwhelmed by the demand for their services.

He asked that we look after our neighbours while always practising social distancing, taking care to check on the isolated and elderly to ensure that they are as comfortable as they possibly can be. He went on to say that “misinformation is also a concern of mine – we often receive and share pieces of advice that we’ve heard from a friend of a friend who is in the know and I urge everyone to practice good information hygiene as well as personal hygiene. Before sharing what you’ve heard, ask for a source of the information as this could easily be false or taken out of context. Get your information from recognised sources and the updates provided by NHS and the Scottish Government.”

I have no doubt that many people have been confused by the sometimes mixed messages that emanate from Westminster, where clarity is what is required in a situation like this. As I write I am watching the television news where viewers are submitting questions to be answered by experts and which demonstrate the level of confusion that still exists. Clear, emphatic directives should be the norm and there are indications that this message is finally getting through, finally!

As we know the situation is going to get a lot worse before it gets better, no ifs, no buts, but the worst case scenario can be averted and the effects mitigated if everyone accepts responsibility, not only for themselves but for others as well.

Frank finished by saying: “There is a lot of information and support available to help you. Please visit our website and follow @Edinburgh_CC for up to date information. Stay safe and stay connected.”