Five cases of Omicron variant confirmed in Dorset
Public Health Dorset have confirmed to Greatest Hits Radio Dorset there are now 5 cases of the Omicron variant in the county
Last updated 13th Dec 2021
Five cases of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 have now been confirmed in Dorset.
Two of the cases are in the Dorset Council area, three are in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch.
Sam Crowe, Director of Public Health for Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, said:
“We are aware that the UK Health Security Agency has confirmed a small number of confirmed and probable cases of the Omicron variant in Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council. UKHSA are managing the response to Omicron and we are working with them to ensure all necessary actions are taken. Cases are being supported to self-isolate and any contacts of confirmed cases will be informed and given advice.
“This new variant is a reminder that COVID-19 is still with us and we need to take steps to reduce transmission and protect ourselves and loved ones. Along with many other areas in England, we have also seen high infection rates locally for a number of weeks, which means there is an increased risk to us all from COVID-19. During the winter months, we know that respiratory viruses spread more easily and we are seeing the impact of that across Dorset.
“With the festive period ahead and people starting to gather more, I’d like to take the opportunity to remind everyone of what you can do to stay safe. Please get vaccinated, including your booster jab. The vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from serious illness caused by COVID-19, but it doesn’t necessarily stop you from catching or spreading the virus, so that’s why we need other precautionary measures as well. Take rapid tests regularly so you can check you’re not infectious, especially before attending gatherings or meeting others. And remember the basic measures - wear a face covering, wash your hands and get plenty of fresh air.”