More than two million people in England are being asked to shield as the nation enters its third coronavirus lockdown.
Guidance from the Government advises that those who are considered clinically extremely vulnerable – defined by the NHS as those at high risk from Covid-19 – should no longer attend work, school, college or university.
Data from NHS Digital last month suggested there were more than 2.2 million shielded patients in England – almost 4% of the population.
In his televised address announcing the latest lockdown on Monday, Mr Johnson said: “If you are clinically extremely vulnerable, we are advising you to begin shielding again and you will shortly receive a letter about what this means for you.”
This group should limit the time they spend outside their home, only going out for medical appointments, exercise or if it is essential.
Anyone in the clinically extremely vulnerable group will have previously had a letter earlier in the pandemic from the NHS or their GP informing them of their status.
They include solid organ transplant recipients, people with specific cancers, people with severe respiratory conditions, adults with Down’s syndrome and adults on dialysis, among others.
James Taylor, executive director of strategy at disability equality charity Scope, said being asked to shield again would “fill many disabled people with anxiety as they face uncertain months ahead locked away from loved ones” and added that it is “vital” those shielding “aren’t left feeling forgotten again like many did last year”.
He said last year many had faced isolation and struggled to access vital healthcare, food and essentials.
He said: “The Government must urgently take steps to prevent the failings of previous lockdowns and make sure disabled people are properly supported this time.
“Many disabled people already felt unsafe going to work and so it’s vital that both the Government and businesses provide support to help disabled people stay in employment, rather than leave furlough up to employer discretion.
“Disabled people at higher risk of the virus should not be having to choose between their life and livelihood.”
