Steep fall in Covid-19 infection rates in Dorset
Public Health Dorset say thousands of people in the county are still catching the virus every week
Last updated 24th Jan 2022
Covid-19 infection rates in Dorset have fallen steeply after a peak in early January.
That's in line with the national trend.
In the Dorset Council area and BCP area rates are now below average for England and the South West.
However Public Health Dorset are warning infection rates still remain high and thousands of people in the county are still catching Covid-19 every week.
There has been a reduction in the number of people in hospital in Dorset with Covid-19 and the number of deaths related to the virus remains stable.
A spokesperson for Public Health Dorset said:
"These trends are positive, but we are still living with COVID-19. The government has announced the removal of Plan B coronavirus measures, but it's important to continue to exercise caution. Health and care services are still extremely busy so we need to do all we can to protect essential frontline services, as well as our friends and loved ones."
Keep following these steps to reduce the risk of catching or spreading COVID-19:
Take lateral flow tests regularly, especially before meeting others
Wear a face covering in indoor crowded spaces
Get plenty of fresh air by meeting outdoors or opening doors and windows inside
Self-isolate and get a PCR test if you develop any symptoms of COVID-19
Get your COVID vaccinations - it's never too late to get yours
Sam Crowe, Director of Public Health for Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, said:
“It’s good news that we’ve seen cases fall quickly and far fewer people are in our hospitals with the virus than we’ve seen during previous waves of the pandemic. This shows we’ve made great progress on COVID-19 thanks to improved treatments, vaccination and the hard work of our communities. Although the government has announced the easing of Plan B measures, it’s important to remember that we’re still living with COVID-19 – the virus hasn’t gone away.
“Though infection levels have fallen, case rates remain high locally. There are still lots of people across Dorset catching COVID-19 every day and becoming unwell. We should still keep doing anything we can to prevent transmission of the virus. Remember that health and care services are still extremely busy so we need to do all we can to protect essential frontline services, as well as our friends and loved ones.
“Testing regularly is key and it was great to see so many people doing this over the Christmas and New Year period when meeting friends and family, so please continue to take a lateral flow test before mixing with others. Whenever you can, meet people outdoors where fresh air disperses virus particles, and if you’re unable to be outside, keep doors and windows open indoors. It’s still sensible to wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces where you’re coming into contact with other people. Self-isolation remains an important measure to stop infectious people spreading the virus on to others, so if you develop symptoms or test positive on a lateral flow test, please self-isolate immediately and follow the guidance.
“The data shows that the majority of people needing treatment in intensive care are unvaccinated, and the vast majority haven’t had a booster jab. If you haven’t had your jabs yet, there are plenty of opportunities to get them in Dorset so book your appointments online or find a walk-in clinic. Overall, the current trends are positive but we should all continue to be vigilant and remain prepared to respond to any further waves of COVID-19.”