Lockdown could end in May if Boris follows Israel’s guidance

If the British government were to follow Israel’s rules, then by the end of May lockdown could be lifted.

If Boris Johnson were to adhere to Israel’s plans, and relied only on the first vaccine dose then shops could reopen in late February following restaurants by late March.

On 22 February the Prime Minister is to unveil his roadmap to exit the current lockdown, and is hoping to reopen schools on 8 March, if it is safe to do so.

By February, Israel will open shops, gyms, sporting events, libraries and hotels, but only once 3m have received their second vaccine jab.

Also, once at least 90% of over 50s have been vaccinated and there are less than 900 Covid patients in hospital.

According to The Telegraph, under the same lockdown plan, cafes, small restaurants, hotels, attractions, conferences and event venues will not welcome people back until March 9.

This is only subject to at least 4m Israelis having had their second jab, and more than 95% of over 50s have been vaccinated.

In areas where the virus is under control schools will partially be allowed to reopen, once 70% of over 50s are fully vaccinated.

According to researchers at the University of Warwick, who gave the estimates to the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, (Sage), suggests that if Johnson were to follow the same criteria, then shops, gyms, sporting events and museums would not reopen until late May.

In order to avoid yet another huge surge in deaths, researchers at Warwick University have recommended that the UK should remain in lockdown until May.

This also means that schools would not reopen on 8 March, but May and the milestone to have 70% of over 50s vaccinated with both doses will unlikely to happen for three months.

Restaurants, cafes, hotels, attractions and events would have to remain closed until early June.

However, if Johnson only relied on the first dose, but followed Israel’s plan, then all schools and retail could open later this month with restaurants reopening late March.

So far the UK have vaccinated one in four adults.