Latest data released by Public Health England is indicating an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases recorded in the Ross-on-Wye area of Herefordshire over recent days.
In the seven day period ending 26th November, a total of 59 new cases of COVID-19 were recorded in the town. This is an increase of 40.5% on the previous seven day period. This increase in cases means that the COVID-19 infection rate in the Ross-on-Wye area is currently 526.6 cases per 100,000 population. The overall COVID-19 infection rate for Herefordshire for the seven day period ending 26th November was 328.5 cases per 100,000 population with 636 new cases recorded.
The Leominster North area is currently recorded the highest COVID-19 infection rate in the county, with 40 new cases giving a COVID-19 infection rate of 660.5 cases per 100,000 population. The good news here is that cases are down by 42% on the previous week.
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.
