New restrictions are being introduced by the Government to try to bring down surging rates of coronavirus across the borough of Oadby and Wigston.
Announced today (Friday), the measures prevent residents socialising with people they don’t live with in private homes and gardens.
The move comes after rates in the borough shot up to 145 per 100,000 people – over three times the national and Leicestershire averages – and placing it second in the country. More than half of the cases in the last week are clusters in households.
Today, the Government has also added the district of Blaby to its watchlist as an ‘area of enhanced support’ after cases rose to 65 per 100,000 people.
Mike Sandys, Leicestershire County Council’s director of public health, said: “This steep rise is off the scale – and underlines that residents need to change their behaviour.
“We know that the virus is spreading in communities so it makes sense for the Government to restrict mixing between households. This will be tough. But with no one source of infection, it really is down to us to stop the increase.
"Whether you’re on the school run, travelling to work, in the office or going out for a drink, follow the guidance. The route out of this is changing our behaviour.”
The rates are startling and we need to get the rise under control. I know increased restrictions are the last thing residents want. But it’s clear the virus is spreading in the community – and this is a pragmatic step targeting the main cause of transmission.
We’re doing everything we can to stem the rise and I’m urging residents to play their part. By doing so, you’re protecting yourselves, your loved ones and your livelihoods
Person:Councillor Lee Breckon, county council cabinet member for health
The Government’s new rules apply to people who live in the borough of Oadby and Wigston so you cannot:
- meet family or friends from other households in homes/private gardens - unless you've formed a support bubble
- stay overnight in another person’s home - unless you’ve formed a bubble with them
Residents are urged to follow the guidance below:
- If you have a high temperature, a new continuous cough or loss of smell/taste, book a test
- Wash your hands regularly
- Keep two metres away from others
- Wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces, including public transport, unless you have a good reason
- Do not meet up with family of friends you don’t live it – inside or outside
- If you’re contacted by test and trace, you must isolate for 14 days
This week, the council has delivered over 20,000 leaflets across Oadby and Wigston and Blaby district, sent out text messages through GP surgeries and brought in an extra mobile testing unit.
Find out more and keep up to date
To book a test, visit: nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test or call 119
