Boris Johnson Warns Over-60s to Take Extra Care as Lockdown Looms
New Rules for Over-60s Amid Rising Risk
Boris Johnson has urged everyone over 60 to be extra cautious as England’s new lockdown kicks in this Thursday. Previously, only those over 70 or with health issues were warned, but new guidance now extends precautions to the 60-plus crowd. A government spokesperson stressed: “There is evidence they could be at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.”
UK Hits 500,000 Daily Covid Tests Target – But Labs Not Maxed Out
The government proudly announced it met its goal of 500,000 daily coronavirus tests by the end of October. On October 31 alone, 525,000 tests could be processed – doubling capacity in just two months. However, fewer than 300,000 tests were actually done, as labs kept some slack in their systems to handle surges and equipment hiccups.
Universities Tell Students: Stay Put During Lockdown
Universities across England are telling students not to rush home, even if courses switch online during lockdown. They want to avoid a mass exodus as restrictions ramp up this week. Meanwhile, the National Union of Students argues students should have the choice to return home safely. Government guidance says teaching should move online where possible, but Universities UK assures there will be a mix of in-person and online lessons throughout the lockdown.
Spain Sees Record Covid Spike – Over 55,000 Infections in a Day
Spain reported a massive jump of 55,019 new coronavirus cases on Monday – the highest daily rise since the pandemic began and more than double last Friday’s figure. The death toll climbed by 379, the deadliest day of Spain’s second wave, though still well below the first wave peak of nearly 900 deaths in late March. The surge partly reflects cases piling up over Spain’s three-day bank holiday weekend.
Official infections now top 1.24 million, but Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez estimates the real total could be over 3 million based on prevalence studies. Spain recently declared a six-month state of emergency to control the second wave.
Ireland Sees Steady Rise with 767 New Cases and Two Deaths
Ireland registered 767 new Covid cases and two more deaths, bringing the total infections to 62,750 and deaths to 1,917. October’s toll hit 103 deaths, up from 36 in September and five in August, with 39 deaths in nursing homes. The 14-day infection rate now stands at 248 cases per 100,000 people. Deputy Chief Medical Officer Heather Burns noted the five-day average cases are 671 per day.
