Just recently, the UK government announced plans to ease shielding guidance for people across England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have also eased their guidance for extremely clinically vulnerable groups.

The latest guidance comes as scientific evidence shows the chances of encountering the virus in the community continues to decline. On average less than 1 in 1,700 people in the community is estimated to have the virus, down from 1 in 500 four weeks ago.

The British Liver Trust know that the pandemic has been an incredibly worrying time for everyone affected by a liver condition and they admire the sacrifices you have made during the last few months. Throughout May and early June, the British Liver Trust have been in dialogue with the Department of Health and Social Care, NHS England and PHE and the equivalent bodies in the four UK nations. They have also written to each of the Chief Medical Officers. This has helped inform the latest shielding guidance for liver patients on their website. If you follow the link above, you will see that we have included an interview with Dr Varuna Aluvihare from Kings College Hospital. He explains why shielding was brought in and which liver patients should follow the guidance.

Remember, if you are concerned and have any questions, LISTEN are here for you and you can also contact your clinician.