Surge in Covid cases in Cornwall 'likely' driven by new Omicron variant
The council has welcomed the introduction of 'Plan B', after 3,373 were recorded in a week
Last updated 10th Dec 2021
Cornwall Council has welcomed the government’s move to Plan B to help stop the spread of Covid-19 and in particular the new Omicron variant.
Cases have risen rapidly over recent weeks, with 3,373 recorded in the week to Saturday 4th December; that is a case rate of 586.1 per 100,000 people.
Public health officials say the rise is likely driven by the Omicron variant and serves as a reminder that we should all keep following the guidance to protect each other as much as possible.
What are the rules and advice under 'Plan B'?
• Wear a face covering in most indoor public places and on public transport. (They are not required in hospitality settings such as pubs and restaurants.) Click here for more on when to wear face coverings.
• Get tested and self-isolate if required. This includes: taking a PCR test if you have any winter illness symptoms and isolating until you get a negative result; and taking Lateral Flow Tests (LFT) before socialising or spending time in enclosed, busy spaces.
• Work from home, if you can.
• Let fresh air in if you meet indoors. Meeting outdoors is safer.
• Get vaccinated People aged 40 to 49 can now get a booster vaccine three months after their second dose. All young people aged 16 and 17 can now get their second vaccine dose from 12 weeks after their first one. All young people aged 12 to 15 can now get their first vaccine dose. Everyone will be notified from the NHS when it is time for them to book their vaccines
• From December 15th, certain venues and events, such as night clubs, will be required by law to check that all visitors aged 18 years or over are fully vaccinated, have proof of a negative test in the last 48 hours, or have an exemption.
You can get a Covid Pass through the NHS mobile phone app, through the NHS website or with a letter that you can obtain by calling 119.
Rachel Wigglesworth, Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: "We know that new restrictions are the last thing that people want, especially at this time of year as we all prepare to celebrate Christmas. But we can’t underestimate the impact this new variant could have on our communities if we don’t take it seriously.
"This is why we welcome the new Plan B rules and are urging people to follow them to protect themselves and those around them.
"It is vital that everyone is aware of the risk and takes responsibility to slow the spread of Omicron in Cornwall".
Cllr Dr Andy Virr, Portfolio Holder for Adults and Public Health and Emergency Department consultant at the Royal Cornwall Hospital, added: "The best weapon we have against rising Covid cases and the Omicron variant is the vaccine so I would urge everyone to make sure they get both jabs and their booster when available.
"The vaccines are proven to reduce severity of illness from the virus and keep people out of hospital so by having it you can not only help protect yourself but also reduce pressure on the NHS this winter.
"The majority of people who end up in hospital with Covid are unvaccinated and I have seen first-hand the impact the virus can have on people’s health. Our message is clear – don’t hang about, get your jabs".