UK scientists warn of risks as lockdown eased

The UK's Chief Scientific Adviser on Tuesday warned that the coronavirus pandemic isn't over and that people need to stick to the rules in order to stop the disease from spreading further.

The warning comes as UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a major loosening of coronavirus lockdown restrictions on Tuesday that will allow a swath of businesses to reopen.

They include restaurants, bars, hotels, hairdressers, cinemas and museums.

"We need to be absolutely sure that with the new relaxation that we stay rigorously to the things that need to happen in order to stop the spread contact to contact, said Patrick Vallance.

The government has also announced that social-distancing rules will be relaxed.

From July 4 people will be advised to stay at least 1 meter (3 feet) apart, rather than 2 meters -- as long as they take other measures to reduce transmission of the virus, such as wearing a mask in enclosed spaces.

"Of course, the fight is far from over. This is a nasty virus still that wants to take advantage of our carelessness, said Johnson.

Adding to the warnings Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty said that the relaxation of the rules doesn't come without risk.

"It is not risk free. Absolutely not. Nobody thinks it is. And we may at some point say that particular bit of the decisions that were taken is too much of a risk with the benefit of hindsight. And we have to go back on it."

The changes only apply in England.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are all following slightly different measures.