The Covid-19 infection rate in Kirklees has risen by 6% in the last seven days and is amongst the highest in the country.
With a number of restrictions lifted this week, Kirklees Council is urging everyone to remain cautious and remember the virus is still spreading.
With 75 per 100,000 people in Kirklees testing positive for Covid-19 over the last seven days, the borough’s rate has increased by 6% since last week. Kirklees’ rate remains above the national average of 28 per 100,000 and needs to drop further and faster.
There were 330 new confirmed positive cases in the last week in Kirklees – more than last week when there were 308.
More than 192,000 local people have now had at least their first Covid-19 vaccine dose, with 61,000 having two doses. Anyone aged 45 and over in Kirklees can book their vaccination now.
There are currently 16 in-patients in local hospitals being treated for Covid-19 – down from 21 last week. There were no deaths related to Covid-19 in local hospitals in the last week. There was one death the previous week.
Rachel Spencer-Henshall, strategic director for public health at Kirklees Council, said: “It’s really great to see restrictions lift this week and for more businesses and venues to be able to open again.
“We’ve been able to get to this point because of the fantastic efforts you are all going to, and the more than 192,000 Kirklees people who have now had at least their first vaccine dose.
“Our infection rate needs to drop further and fast because it is still significantly above the national average and increased over the last week. Our infection rate is likely to be higher than many other areas because of the types of industries we have in Kirklees and the number of people leaving their home each day to work.
“With the easing of restrictions, it’s now much more likely for us to come into contact with people outside our household or bubble. We need to remember that the virus is still spreading in our communities and if we are not careful, we risk our numbers rising again.
READ MORE: There was a big drop in Covid infections the week before last
“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.
“There’s a good reason why much of the restrictions being lifted focus around being outdoors. The risk of infection is significantly lower as the fresh air helps to disperse the virus particles. So, if you are meeting with people from other households in line with changes to restrictions, it’s so much safer outdoors. And always remember: hands, face, space when you’re leaving home.
“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.”
If you’re vulnerable and need support, please visit Kirklees Council’s website or call 0800 4561114.
