Big Conversation Portsmouth: Here's how many people fear a second wave - and have no faith in the rule of six

The Big Conversation survey, led by The News, found 88.7 per cent of more than 1,000 respondents were concerned or very concerned about the coronavirus infection rising again.

Government advisory committee Sage said on Friday the UK’s R number had risen to between 1.3 and 1.6.

This means every 10 people with Covid-19 could infect between 13 and 16 others.

Helen Atkinson, director of public health at Portsmouth City Council, said: ‘I totally understand that many of our residents are concerned about the second wave of coronavirus but we are in unprecedented times. Currently our infection rates in Portsmouth are low compared to other parts of the UK, which is due to residents doing their bit alongside the continuing response from the NHS, council and partners.

‘If we all follow the guidance locally, keeping track of any changes, we can make sure the local infection rate stays as low as possible to reduce the impact of the second wave.

‘I'd urge residents to keep going with the guidance on 2m social distancing, face coverings, good hand and respiratory hygiene and following the rule of six – all measures which will have an impact on reducing infection rates over the next few weeks. So remember hands, face and space.’

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