Changing nature of Covid-19 means next steps are never straightforward

The rising number of Covid patients in hospital is a significant cause for concern. File picture

As we edge ever closer to October 22, the day on which the majority of remaining restrictions are due to be lifted, Covid is once again threatening to throw a spanner in the works.

The 11.30pm curfew on hospitality businesses was due to be removed, nightclubs were scheduled to reopen, events were set to resume in a manner similar to pre-pandemic times, and the vaccine passport for indoor dining was to become a thing of the past.