Herefordshire’s COVID-19 infection rate remains one of the lowest in the United Kingdom at present and is currently at its lowest level since mid-September as cases continue to plummet.
The number of new cases recorded in the seven day period ending 25th November was 661. This is a 29% fall on the previous seven day period and shows that at present, despite concerns over the new Omicron variant, that levels of the virus in the county continue to shrink. Herefordshire’s COVID-19 infection rate for the seven day period ending 25th November was 341 cases per 100,000 population.
However, there are areas of the county where cases are rising. In Ross-on-Wye, 53 new cases of COVID-19 were recorded in the seven day period ending 25th November. This is an increase of 32.5% on the previous seven day period and gives the town a COVID-19 infection rate of 473 cases per 100,000 population.
Despite this good news, Herefordshire Council yesterday advised residents to follow new rules imposed by Government and to remain cautious with the emergence of the Omicron variant.
A press release shared by Herefordshire Council yesterday said:
Herefordshire Council is advising residents across the county on the measures government has introduced in response to the Omicron variant of coronavirus.
From today, Tuesday 30 November, wearing face masks in shops and on public transport becomes compulsory.
Secondary schools and childcare settings
Pupils, staff and visitors to secondary schools and childcare settings are being “strongly advised” to wear face masks in communal areas.
Schools may contact parents about their specific arrangements.
Travel
The government has also added more countries to the UK red list. Anyone now arriving in England who has been in a red-listed country in the previous 10 days must isolate at a managed quarantine hotel. There are also testing requirements for all international arrivals who must take a Day 2 PCR test and self-isolate until they receive a negative result.
Full information about travel to England from another country during coronavirus can be found on the government’s coronavirus webpage.
Isolation for close contacts of omicron COVID-19 cases
Close contacts of suspected or confirmed cases of Omicron variant will be required to self-isolate for 10 days even if vaccinated or under 18 years. If you are informed by NHS test and trace that you need to isolate and are not exempt, you must self-isolate.
Stay safe
Dr Rebecca Howell-Jones, acting director of public health for Herefordshire Council, says:
“Coronavirus is not going away and we are now facing the additional challenge of a new variant, Omicron. However, there are actions we can each take to help protect ourselves, our families and Herefordshire from Covid-19, and other infections, this winter. I would ask everyone to follow the advice including testing regularly and getting vaccinated. If you are eligible for a booster dose book online (if there are no slots check back as more regularly become available). And remember, to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 hands, face, space, ventilation – Regularly wash your hands, wear face coverings, keep your distance from others and ensure indoor spaces are well ventilated.”
You can find out more about what you can do to keep safe by visiting herefordshire.gov.uk/safehere. This includes links to important information on how to test against Covid-19 and how to take up the offer of a vaccination.
