The Covid-19 infection rate in Kirklees has dropped by 37% over the last week as the impact of the vaccination roll-out is felt across the district.

More than 190,000 people in Kirklees have now had at least their first dose of the vaccine and hospitalisations and deaths are continuing to fall significantly.

With 70 per 100,000 people in Kirklees testing positive for Covid-19 over the last seven days, the borough’s rate has decreased by 37% since last week. Kirklees’ rate does, however, remain above the national average of 37 per 100,000.

There were 308 new confirmed positive cases in the last week in Kirklees – fewer than last week when there were 478.

More than 190,000 local people have now had at least their first Covid-19 vaccine dose, with 43,000 having two doses. Anyone over 50 in Kirklees can book their vaccination now.

Sixteen Kirklees people were admitted to local hospitals with Covid-19 over the last week, which has dropped from 19 last week.

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There were sadly two people who died with Covid-19 in local hospitals in the last week – which is no change from the previous week.

You can view all the data on our online dashboard, including a breakdown of each Kirklees ward.

From Monday all retail, personal care businesses such as hair and beauty salons, gyms, public buildings, outdoor attractions and outdoor hospitality such as pub beer gardens, can re-open and the council is urging caution. 

With more restrictions now lifting, the council is reminding people of the three basic rules: hands, face, space when leaving home.

Helen Broscombe receives her jab in Birkby

Rachel Spencer-Henshall, strategic director for public health at Kirklees Council, said: “It’s fantastic news to see all of our numbers in Kirklees heading in the right direction, and it’s thanks to everyone’s efforts we are now able to move to Step 2 of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown.

“With more than 190,000 local people having at least their first vaccine dose, our hospitalisation and deaths linked to Covid-19 have fallen significantly.

“Please enjoy the freedoms we are getting back but remember that the virus is still spreading in our communities. It’s crucial that we continue with these improvements as restrictions ease on April 12 with people much more likely to come into contact with people outside their household or bubble.

“There’s a really important role we all have to play in making sure we keep our numbers down so we can get Kirklees through the national roadmap out of lockdown and back to normality.

“Taking the vaccine when it’s your turn is the best way we can save lives, keep pressure off the NHS and get our lives back to normality. It significantly protects you from Covid-19. The more people that take it, the bigger chance we have of beating Covid-19 for good.

“Another great way you can help reduce the spread of the virus in your community is by getting a rapid lateral flow test twice a week if you are not showing any symptoms. Asymptomatic testing helps us identify people who are infectious and could spread the infection to others unknowingly.

“Lastly, always remember: hands, face, space when you’re leaving home. It’s important to remember that if you are meeting with people from other households in line with changes to restrictions, it’s so much safer outdoors.

“Thank you to everyone in Kirklees for playing your part. We’re seeing great progress and if we all continue to take the vaccine when it’s our turn and remain cautious as restrictions ease, we’ll continue to follow the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown and get our lives back to normality.”

If you’re vulnerable and need support, please visit Kirklees Council’s website or call 0800 4561114.