Health chief’s important message as cases rise in Gloucestershire

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Thursday, 22 July 2021 22:20

By Carmelo Garcia - Local Democracy Reporter

Health bosses are calling on people to take care as coronavirus cases continue to rise in Gloucestershire.

There were 399.3 cases per 100,000 people in the county over the seven days to July 17  but hospitalisations remain relatively low.

And most new Covid-19 positive test results are among younger age groups.

Gloucestershire’s public health director Sarah Scott says it is still very important for people to wash their hands, use masks in crowded places and get vaccinated.

She said that while it is concerning that cases are still rising, the low level of hospital admissions is an indication that the vaccination programme is working.

“We are still encouraging people to get both doses of the vaccine and we’ve seen some really good uptake from drop-in vaccination sessions,” she said.

“Our cases are still going up. Our rate today for Gloucestershire is less than the South West and England. And we are seeing an increase from last week.

“It is concerning because we are seeing more cases. We know people are mixing more and it is expected that cases will rise.

“The majority of cases are still among our younger age groups who have not had the opportunity to be fully vaccinated although we are seeing some cases among older age groups particularly among the over 60s in Gloucester.”

She said people who are being admitted to hospital for other conditions are being tested positive for Covid-19.

“There’s around 20 hospital admissions at the moment. What we are finding is quite a proportion of those people are not going into hospital because of Covid they are being diagnosed on admission

“Everyone is tested on admission to hospital and some are finding out they have got Covid.

“Those people aren’t in hospital to have treatment for Covid, they might have a broken leg or a stomach ulcer or something.

“That’s quite interesting and that’s further indication that the vaccination programme is working.”

Ms Scott said it is still important that society does all it can to prevent the spread of the virus.

People should continue with hand washing, wearing masks in crowded places.

She also said people considering whether or not they should get vaccinated should consult reputable sources for information.

“If anyone is slightly worried about getting the vaccine they should go to reputable sources of information as there is a lot of information circling on social media,” she said.

“So, people can make an informed decision and if they haven’t made a decision yet, that’s fine, just make sure you get the best information.”

For more information on the vaccine and drop-in vaccination centres click here.

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