Steep increases among young and over-60s
Infection rates are rising steeply in Charnwood as the county council has again called on people of all ages to do all they can to restrict the spread of coronavirus.
Data published by the county council shows that, for the week ending 17th October, every district in the county still had rates of over 100 cases for every 100,000 people.
Charnwood’s rate of 293 cases for every 100,000 people is significantly above the national average of 168 while Oadby and Wigston’s latest figures are 259.
Mike Sandys, director of public health for Leicestershire County Council, says cases are very high in the 17-21s age range while rates among over-60s have trebled since the end of September.
Mirroring the national figures, we’re seeing steep rises – and this is particularly true in Charnwood. This could mean the district moves into tier two, but we’ll need to wait to hear from the Government.
The over-60s rate is an important indicator of likely pressure on the NHS in the weeks to come. Numbers are highest in Charnwood, Oadby and Wigston and Blaby District and it’s crucial we stop the spread to people who are more at risk.
Whatever the restrictions are, it’s important people are sensible. By doing the right thing, we can all play our part to combat this virus. Please continue to wash your hands, keep your social distance and wear a face covering.
Person:Mike Sandys, director of public healthLeader of Charnwood Borough Council, Cllr Jonathan Morgan, said: “The continuing rise of cases across the borough is a serious concern.
“Obviously, no one wants to see any further restrictions brought in locally, but we need to get on top of the increasing infection rates in the borough. Ultimately it will be the Government’s decision on whether further action is required.
“There is no room for complacency, and I would urge residents to continue following the basic advice of hands, face, space and the rule of six. Individual actions can help to stabilise the transmission of the virus and protect the most vulnerable people in our community.
“We will continue to work with Leicestershire County Council, Public Health England and other partners to monitor the case numbers in the borough.”
Mike Sandys said: “We’re doing everything we can to curb growing rates. Residents have really stepped up their game – but there is still work to be done as we try to control the spread of the virus. It’s in our own hands locally to keep ourselves and our loved ones, staff and customers safe.”
Businesses can help by:
• Collecting data from customers and visitors and encouraging use of the NHS test and trace app;
• Working with NHS Test and Trace to reduce transmission of the virus;
• Clearly displaying information to staff and customers re-iterating some of the simple actions that we must all do to protect each other – that’s through social distancing, wearing a face mask and washing your hands;
• Advising staff not to car share if possible but if it’s essential to follow safety advice
Councillor Lee Breckon, county council cabinet member for health, said: “I can only echo our director of public health’s take on the current situation – make no mistake this is a crucial phase. And it’s never been more important to follow the national and local guidance.
“By doing so, we can stop cases spreading to our most vulnerable residents.”
Read the Government guidance at: www.gov.uk/coronavirus