Hertfordshire’s top public health boss is urging people to be “kind to each other” when coronavirus rules are scrapped amid an increase of cases.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to confirm on Monday that a final easing of coronavirus restrictions will take place in England on July 19.

It means mask wearing will no longer be a legal requirement, rules on social distancing will be scrapped in most situations, and nightclubs will be able to reopen.

Whilst this will be exciting news to many, Jim McManus, Hertfordshire’s director of public health, has warned that there will be people “fearful or apprehensive” about the transition.

It comes following a steep rise in infection rates across the county, with all ten districts either surpassing 200 cases per 100,000 population or approaching it.

These number similar to those seen at the start of the second lockdown in November last year.

Government dashboard data shows cases in the county are being driven by teenagers and those in their early 20s.

Mr McManus is now urging people to be sensible when the rules change, warning people that Covid-19 “won’t end” when they do.

He said: “While many people will be excited at the prospect of restrictions being lifted on 19 July, others will be fearful or apprehensive. We all need to be kind to each other as we move into this next phase. 

“The virus has not gone away, in fact cases are rising and it’s important to recognise that everyone’s circumstances are different and what feels comfortable to one person might not feel that way to another.”

He added: “The most important thing right now is for us all to keep doing the things which stop infection. Get vaccinated if you are 18 or over, give people space, wear face coverings in crowded indoor areas, ventilate your workplaces and social spaces, and if you have symptoms get tested and self-isolate. These measures have kept us safe and will keep us safe still.

 “Covid-19 won’t end when the rules change, and we need to keep being sensible – as almost everyone has been for the last 15 months – and keep each other safe.

 “Let’s keep looking out for one another and recognise that we’re all going to be moving forward at our own pace.”

As of July 6, there were 14 Covid patients being cared for by West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, including four patients on ventilation.

West Hertfordshire Hospitals Trust has not recorded a Covid death since April 25.