The Covid-19 infection rate in Kirklees has increased by 37% over the last week in line with a rising trend nationally. Hospital admissions remain relatively low but have increased over the last week.

The latest figures show 158 people per 100,000 in Kirklees testing positive for Covid-19 over the last seven days, similar  to the national average, which is 149 people per 100,000.

There were no deaths in local hospitals related to Covid-19. However, there were 17 people admitted to those hospitals in that time, which has increased from 15 the previous week. Covid-19 admissions have increased, particularly in the 40-59 age group. So far 282,000 local people have had their first vaccination dose and 215,000 of those have received their second.

Rachel Spencer-Henshall, strategic director for public health at Kirklees Council, said: “We are seeing a trend of rising infection rates in England and in Kirklees our numbers are in line with the national picture. Infection rates are high and, whilst they remain relatively low, hospital admissions have increased, particularly in the 40-59 age group.

“Thankfully, we’ve had no deaths related to the virus again in the last week, but reducing our infection rate and hospital admissions is crucial if we wish to keep it that way.

“I’m urging everyone aged 18 or over to take the vaccine. Some people can’t take the vaccine and many of those people have medical conditions that makes them more vulnerable to Covid-19. By taking the vaccine you will reduce your chances of passing Covid-19 on to someone who could become severely ill. Just because you’re young and healthy, there’s also no guarantee Covid-19 won’t significantly impact your health. The best way to protect yourself, whatever your age, is to take the vaccine.

“If you’ve had your first dose, I can’t stress enough just how important it is that get your second. For effective and longer-lasting protection from Covid-19, you do need your second dose. It better protects you and others who might be more vulnerable to Covid-19. You should get your second vaccination between eight and 12 weeks after your first dose. This is to ensure maximum protection is achieved. If it’s been longer than 12 weeks since you had your first vaccination and you haven’t had your second yet, you should get it as soon as you can. 

“It’s really important, that even when you have received your vaccine, that you continue to do the basics: hands, face, space as well as letting plenty of fresh air indoors.

“Getting a twice-weekly lateral flow test is a really effective way we can all prevent the spread of the virus. This is really important even if you have been vaccinated.

Thank you all for playing your part.