Numbers of Coronavirus cases in Hull are currently low, but it is vital people continue to take the virus seriously, Hull City Council’s Director of Public Health has explained, following newly released Government data.
As pubs, restaurants and other businesses prepare to reopen tomorrow, Julia Weldon has urged people to continue to take steps to reduce spread in order to help prevent any change in restrictions.
This week, the Government published seven-day infection rates showing both Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 data – Pillar 1 refers to swab tests in Public Health England (PHE) and in hospitals, for both patients and staff, whereas Pillar 2 includes swab tests in the wider population.
Previously, only Pillar 1 data had been shared. Hull’s rate is currently 2.7 cases per 100,000 of the population, which is below the regional and national average. The city’s cumulative number of coronavirus cases however, is sixth highest in the Yorkshire and Humber area.
In a joint statement, Julia and Councillor Stephen Brady, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “Firstly, we would like to reassure people in Hull that your safety and wellbeing remains our absolute priority. We have full access to all data on coronavirus and carry out a detailed review of this on a daily basis. Should the information suggest at any point that additional measures or restrictions are necessary we will act immediately.
“Our very latest figures for Hull show rate of cases per 100,000 of our population is 2.7 and we have seen rates decline over the past two weeks. While coronavirus remains a risk to all of us and every case is a concern, the current level means we can proceed with opening a wider range of businesses this weekend. It is still essential to follow all government advice around hand hygiene, social distancing and use of face coverings, particularly as we prepare for lockdown to ease and we return to local businesses, both as workers and customers.
“The NHS and Local Authority teams in Hull will continue to work hard with Public Health England (PHE) to manage any cases of coronavirus in the city. We have been able to identify and safely manage outbreaks in Hull throughout the pandemic, but it is important to remember coronavirus is still a risk.
“This week, we published our Hull Outbreak Prevention and Management Plan, which describes our ongoing work to with partners across the city to reduce risks of virus transmission, prevent outbreaks and deal with them when they occur.
“To keep our number of local coronavirus cases low, it is vital every resident continues to understand and follow government guidance. If you develop symptoms of coronavirus (cough, or fever, or loss or change in sense of smell or taste) you should isolate yourself at home and arrange a test either through the NHS website or by calling 119. Advise your household contacts to isolate themselves at home in line with the national guidance.
“Please also be aware that as NHS Test and Trace is now operational, anyone could receive an email, text or call at any time asking them to isolate due to recent contact with someone who has coronavirus.”
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