Blunt warning to Harborough residents as Covid rates start to rise again

People are being warned they will be in for a “bumpy ride” if they don’t act now as the rate of Covid-19 infection has shot up in Harborough as well as right across Leicestershire

The blunt warning to be extra vigilant and to be responsible has been issued by Mike Sandys, the county council’s director of public health.

Mike spoke out as the rate of coronavirus cases in Harborough climbed to 19.2 per 100,000 people.

That’s still the lowest figure in Leicestershire but is 79 per cent up compared to just a week ago.

Figures across Leicestershire have risen above the national average after jumping from 15.2 to 38 for every 100,000 people.

Rates have more than trebled in Blaby District (57.1 cases per 100,000 population) and Charnwood (57.6) over the same period – well above England’s average of 32.4 per 100,000.

“The picture in Leicestershire has worsened quickly and we could be in for a bumpy ride if we don’t take action now.

“We are seeing rises – particularly in children and young people and those in their 30s.

“This is driven by people mixing more and we’re seeing a number of cases connected to barbecues and parties,” said Mike.

“And also because, like the rest of the country, the more transmissible delta variant is the dominant strain in Leicestershire.

“We’re in a better position compared to the start of the year.

“I know it’s been a tough 15 months but the pandemic isn’t over.

“If you’re getting together with friends and family, take care, make sure you’re doing the right thing by meeting up sensibly, and crucially, take the opportunity to get vaccinated.”

To help combat the spread of the highly-virulent coronavirus, people are being urged to:

• Get tested if you have symptoms and isolate – book a test at: www.nhs.uk/coronavirus

• Get vaccinated – and in particular, make sure you have your second dose. Find out more at: www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine

• Take regular, rapid lateral flow tests to help keep your workplace, community and school safe – find out more and order tests: www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-testsHarborough district councillor Phil Knowles said: ''These latest figures will be a real concern but we must also see them as a clear warning that Covid-19 is some way from being beaten.

“We need to redouble our efforts to wash and sanitise our hands, continue the use of face coverings and socially distance as recommended.

“These steps will not only help protect the individual, these steps will help protect the wider community across Harborough.”

He added: “This latest figure should also remind us of the importance of getting vaccinated.

“If you are offered the jab then take it - it could well save your life and help to keep all of us safe.”