Public health officials in Leicestershire say residents in parts of the Blaby district should get tested for coronavirus if they have symptoms, following a rise in positive cases, particularly among younger people.
Latest data for the borough shows that, although the number of cases is still relatively small, figures show that there have been 32 cases over a seven-day period up to 3rd September.
That means the rate per 100,000 is 31.9, which is significantly higher than the national average of 19.7 per 100,000 people.
We’ve seen an increase recently and, although numbers are fairly small, we need people to play their part and drive down rates.
“It’s down to us now – and testing is how we will avoid the need for local restrictions. If you have symptoms, you must book a test. To protect yourself and others, keep two metres apart, wash your hands and always wear a face covering in confined spaces
Person:Mike Sandys, Leicestershire County Council's director of public health
Terry Richardson, leader of Blaby District Council, said: “We’re fully supporting the county council’s call for people to get tested if they have symptoms.
“We’re particularly encouraging the 18-34-year age group to stay alert when they are socialising.”
There have been 23 new cases in the Harborough district for the same seven-day period. The rate per 100,000 people stands at 24.9.
Cases there have also been particularly linked to 18-34-year-olds living in the district, as well as those living in Market Harborough itself and the nearby town of Lutterworth.
Harborough District Council leader, Phil King, said: “In our area, we’re seeing a small increase in cases, but it’s important that people stay vigilant and we all act together to prevent further spikes.
“We want to ensure we don’t have a situation where more restrictive measures need to be introduced as we’ve seen in other areas in the country.”
The county council’s public health team is working closely with the local districts to get the message out.
County council leader Nick Rushton has also re-iterated the importance of being extra vigilant. He said: “If people can limit their contacts, they will be protecting themselves and their friends and families.”
Book a test via the NHS website on nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test or call 119.