Public health experts warn covid cases could rise 'rapidly' in our region in the next few days
As the Omicron variant spread, people are being encouraged to stay safe - by washing hands, wearing a face covering and getting vaccinated
Public health experts in West Yorkshire are warning covid cases could 'rapidly' increase in the next few days.
Rates in Yorkshire are lower than other regions at the moment, but we are starting to see an uptake in the number of infections.
To stay safe, people are being encouraged to continue washing their hands, wearing a face covering in indoor settings and on public transport, try to increase ventilation in rooms you are in, work from home if possible and know the symptoms and signs of coronavirus.
Symptoms include a cough, temperature and loss of taste or smell.
Dr Mike Gent, Deputy Director of Health Protection for Yorkshire and the Humber says the most important thing people can do is get their vaccine or booster jab.
He said:
"I expect number of cases to rise rapidly over the next few days and weeks, we've seen what's happened in London, so we expected it to increase quite rapidly.
"Take regular lateral flow tests every day, to catch the infection, should you get it, as early as possible, so you can start to self-isolate.
"Take a lateral flow test if you're intending to go out for a meal or a place where they'll be lots of other people."
As more people test positive, an increasing number of people are spending Christmas in isolation.
Dr Mike Gent said:
"If you're living by yourself, it's important to keep your spirits up, try and treat yourself, make sure you have the things you need, make sure you are getting support from your family and friends. If you can't get support from them, check into your local council, because they should be able to support you through the isolation."