Coronavirus: Dorset cases nearly double in a week
Cases in the county are continuing to rise especially in the 18-30 age range.
A report released by Public Health Dorset yesterday (Thursday 19th October) said that Coronavirus cases in the county have nearly doubled after a 169 case jump in the last 7 day period.
- 414 cases in the week up to the 25th October.
- 245 cases in the week up to 18th October.
The county's case numbers are continuing to go up particularly in the 18-30 age range and there are more patients in Dorset hospitals who are testing positive for the virus.
As of the 27th October there were 85 COVID-19 patients in hospital beds in Dorset, compared with 44 patients the week before.
Meanwhile the Public Health authority have confirmed that Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council are remaining in Tier 1 - a medium local alert level.
A spokesperson from Public Health Dorset said:
"Over the last few weeks, we have seen a significant rise in confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Dorset. We are constantly reviewing the data and considering our options with local and regional partners.
"At the moment, both Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council areas remain in Tier 1 (medium local alert level).
"The situation in Dorset is serious. We need everyone to do their bit and follow guidelines otherwise we will see ourselves moving to a higher tier."
Public Health Dorset gave the following advice:
- We all need to limit contact with people outside of our household.
- Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 must self-isolate immediately and book a test.
- If you are waiting for a test result you and your whole household must self-isolate until you get the result.
- If you test positive or have been identified as a close contact, you must self-isolate.
- Self-isolating means you must not leave your home at all. Do not go to work or school, do not go to the shops and do not leave the house for exercise.