While support bubbles will remain a vital support for those living alone or in need of childcare during the third national lockdown, health officials are reminding people that it is important to remember the new variant of coronavirus is between 50 and 70 per cent more transmissible.

Pharmacist Shaeeb Ali, of private healthcare service and online pharmacy MedsOnline247, has outlined the measures that could be implemented to ensure you are doing everything you can to protect those in your bubble:

Practise social distancing and ventilate rooms to increase air circulation
Wear face masks for additional protection
Maintain good hand hygiene
Consider taking daily multivitamins to boost your immune system

Shaeeb, an advanced clinical practitioner and independent pharmacist prescriber, said: “During this third national lockdown, the all-important bubbles are set to stay in place. However, preventative measures should still be taken to minimise its potential transmission.

“Firstly,  those who show symptoms of coronavirus (such as a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste), have tested positive for Covid-19, or live with someone who has symptoms or received a positive test should self-isolate immediately and, therefore, not form a support bubble.”

Practise social distancing

“Social distancing with people in your bubble isn’t a requirement. However, as it’s effective in reducing the risk of transferring viral droplets, where possible, we would recommend those who are vulnerable should stay further than two metres apart from others and avoid touching surfaces such as handrails and door handles.

“The virus is also known to transmit more in poorly ventilated rooms. Despite the urge to keep the warmth in, an open window can significantly increase air circulation and remove aerosol droplets potentially hanging in a room’s air.”

Wear face masks

“Face masks have become as essential to people’s leaving-the-house checklist as keys, wallet and phone. While wearing a face mask in your bubble isn’t a government requirement,  i t should be considered for additional protection – particularly if you’re worried about transmission to a vulnerable member of your bubble.

“When it comes to preventing the spread of Covid-19, any type of mask is better than none. Respirator masks – such as FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 – are made of a fabric designed to filter the air or impurities. While not as effective, disposable surgical masks are also an option, as well as fabric or homemade masks.”

Maintain hand hygiene

“It is also important and advisable to carry hand sanitiser gel and regularly wash your hands. Make sure you’ve stocked up on plenty of bottles of hand wash and keep hand sanitiser dotted around your home for others to use.

“The virus can live on surfaces so wiping down surfaces with antibacterial wipes will also help to disinfect your home and keep people safe. Regular sanitising will ensure that any harmful bacteria or germs are killed effectively.”

Boosting your immune system  

“Your immune system is your body’s natural defence against infection and its function is essential in keeping you healthy. Now, more than ever, it’s important to keep your immune system as strong as possible, particularly for those with underlying health conditions.

“To ensure you get enough nutrients, you should try to eat a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and wholegrains and consider taking daily multivitamins to help keep levels boosted.

“Essential vitamins and minerals, including A, C, D and E, as well as antioxidants and zinc, can strengthen your immune system. An increased supplementation of cholecalciferol, more commonly known as vitamin D3, which is naturally taken in by sunlight, is recommended throughout the restricted daylight period of the winter months.

“While vitamins won’t prevent you from being infected by coronavirus, they will support the performance and health of your immune system – working harder to protect you against harm.

“If you do  feel ill or start developing symptoms, book a test to check if you have coronavirus. You and anyone you live with should stay at home until you get your test result. If you become increasingly worried about your symptoms and you’re not sure what to do, use the  NHS 111 online coronavirus service for further advice and guidance.”