Latest figures show that Covid cases have risen steeply in Staffordshire following the Christmas holiday.
Cases have risen right across the county, particularly in the South, with South Staffordshire and Cannock Covid rates escalating to close to 500 cases per 100,000 population per week.
The Covid rate for Staffordshire is currently around 365 per 100,000 population, lower than the West Midlands rate of over 400 and England’s rate of over 500. Some areas in the south of the country now have rates over 1,000.
Staffordshire was moved into Tier 4 restrictions on 31 December which means people must stay at home, only leaving if you have a “reasonable excuse” such as work, education, essential shopping or medical appointments.
Dr Johnny McMahon, Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, said:
“It looks like the new fast-spreading Coronavirus strain has arrived in the county. This along with a bit of extra mixing between households over the holidays has led to a steep rise in cases.
“Now, more than ever, it’s vital we do all we can to stop the spread of infection.
“One of the most important things we are asking people to do, alongside the basics of hands, face and space is, if they live in a hotspot area, please take time to book a test – even if you feel well and have no symptoms.
“You should get a result in under one hour.
“We must remember 1 in 3 people do not show any symptoms – so getting tested can protect those nearest and dearest to you and help stop the spread.”
If you live or work in a ‘hotspot’ area you should book a rapid covid test at one of our community sites. Details of sessions this week and how to book can be found here. The availability of testing slots is good.
If there are no community sessions planned people in these areas can book a test via the national portal https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test and choose “my local council has asked me to book a test”.
If you do have any symptoms (which can all be found here) you should book a test via the national portal.
A full list of the new restrictions in place for Staffordshire are available at Tier 4: Stay at Home alert level.
