Northeast England is facing new restrictions due to the rapid rise of coronavirus cases.

British Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced that strict restrictions are necessary and will affect over 1.5 million people in seven regions, including Sunderland and Newcastle.

Socializing outside of households is one of the banned activities on the list, as well as closing all bars and restaurants at 10 pm.

The new restrictions will come into effect on Friday, and the authorities are warning people to respect the protective measures and help in stopping the new outbreak.

The total number of coronavirus cases in England since the beginning of the pandemic is 279,000, while 36,765 have lost their lives.

Strict lockdowns are necessary to stop the further spread of COVID-19 and prevent people from socializing when that’s not safe for them and their families.