Hull's coronavirus infection rate almost doubles in one week

Hull’s Director of Public Health is urging every person in the city to do their bit to halt the spread of Coronavirus as the local seven-day rate of confirmed cases climbed from 17.3 to 31.8 in a week.

That figure compares with a rate in England of 67.9 per 100,000 of population and with 102.7 per 100,000 across the Yorkshire and Humber region.

Julia Weldon, Director of Public Health for Hull, said:

"While our rate remains below the average in Yorkshire and Humber and England, the increase is concerning and must be taken seriously.

“We must all act now to do everything within our power to make sure we are not spreading the virus. Be vigilant about hand hygiene, washing hands frequently for at least 30 seconds; wear face coverings everywhere you are asked; limit social gatherings to a maximum of six people and observe social distancing.

“Remember that it is possible to have Coronavirus without symptoms and spread it, so it is absolutely crucial to follow all guidance. Do not be the person responsible for unknowingly infecting others.

“Vitally, if you have symptoms you and every person in your household must immediately isolate and anyone with one or more symptoms must get a test. Symptoms are a new, continuous cough, a temperature, or a loss or change to sense of taste or smell.

“We are in a period where we are seeing local lockdowns implemented all over the country. Hull is not exempt from additional restrictions to protect people and preserve the NHS.

“I ask all of you to consider your loved ones; friends and family, and particularly anyone among them who may be vulnerable. Think about how the virus could affect them. Every person in our city is somebody’s loved one and we must all extend the same care to strangers we would those we care about most.

“Take care of each other by following advice; take notice of the latest guidance and any changes; take action by isolating if needed and getting a test if symptomatic.”