Health bosses say 'Covid hasn't gone away' as Wiltshire sees cases rise
The UK Health Security Agency is asking us to 'remain vigilant'
Last updated 30th Jun 2022
People across the South West are being asked to remember that Covid 'hasn't gone away' and to take steps to keep ourselves safer.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says infections are increasing across the region, particularly in the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 variants.
Latest Government stats show that in the week to 24th June, Wiltshire saw a 40% rise in cases compared to the previous seven days - with 1,197 cases of Covid confirmed.
Salisbury District Hospital also currently has 42 inpatients with the virus.
It's also been confirmed that a total of 304 people have died at SDH, within 28 days of a positive Covid test, since the pandemic began.
UKHSA is now calling on people to 'enjoy the summer and our regained freedoms', but to do our bit to 'live safely' with the virus.
Kheelna Bavalia, Medical Director for NHS England and NHS Improvement in the South West, said:
"Across the South West people have tirelessly played their part to keep their family, friends, work colleagues and themselves protected and free from Covid.
"With the indicated rise in Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 we must continue to be vigilant and take those important steps that will keep ourselves well and reduce the spread of the virus to others.”
The health body is reminding people that Covid vaccinations are still available to those who have chosen not to have them so far.
They have some other tips as well:
- Stay at home if you have any respiratory symptoms or a fever and limit contact with others until you are feeling better, particularly if they are likely to be at greater risk if they contract COVID-19
- Face coverings and hand washing still remain important in reducing transmission - consider wearing a face covering in crowded, enclosed spaces and washing your hands thoroughly and often, especially before and after getting on public transport or getting in from work, shops or the pub
- Meeting others outside is much safer than indoors as the fresh air helps to blow the COVID-19 particles away - make the most of the warm weather over the summer and meet family and friends outside; or if you meet indoors, let the fresh air in by opening doors and windows