COVID-19 case rates at all-time high in Shropshire

Shropshire has seen Covid-19 infections surge across the county in recent weeks.

During the seven-day period between 31 December 2021 – 6 January 2022:   

• 5,374 new COVID-19 cases reported   
• An increase of 26% on the previous week 
• The 7-day infection rate for Shropshire was 1651.4 per 100,000   
• It was 1751.1 per 100,000 for the West Midlands, and 1708.5 for England  
• 55 beds were occupied by COVID-19 patients 
• 8 COVID-19-related deaths in a local hospital

Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council’s director of public health, said: “These rates are the highest we have ever seen in Shropshire, and we are now starting to see an increase in the number of people being treated for COVID-19 in our local hospitals which is worrying. We are also starting to see the effect on care homes and schools. Our health protection teams are working with these settings to minimise the risks as much as possible. 

“Being fully vaccinated remains the best defence against the virus. Book an appointment online, head to a walk-in clinic, or keep an eye out for Bob the vaccination bus which is making its way around the county targeting areas with lower uptake. 

“As always, I ask that you take measures to help us slow the spread of the virus. Face coverings in busy places, good hand hygiene, regular testing and good ventilation remain vitally important.” 

Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care and public health, said: “I appreciate how tired everyone is of this situation, especially with the two-year mark fast approaching, but I’d like to thank everyone for their efforts so far. With guidance frequently changing, it can be hard to keep up with, but it is important to follow it so we keep ourselves, our loved ones and our communities safe.”