The scientist whose modelling led to the first UK lockdown has said the decision over whether to see elderly relatives over Christmas comes down to “individual judgment”, but that the relaxed measures during the five-day window will inevitably increase coronavirus transmission. Referring to the hypothetical option of a Christmas break during which no household mixing was allowed, the expert said: “What proportion of the population would actually go along with it? I think the measures at Christmas … do pose some risks and I think individual judgment is important in deciding whether to see elderly relatives.”Overall, he said, the bubble system should limit the extent of transmission if people adhered to the rules. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies has suggested that people mitigate the risks of transmission by celebrating in a different way this year. The group also urges people to limit the number of guests, and the length of visitors’ stays.

Source: The Guardian November 28, 2020 12:26 UTC