COVID-19 cases reach highest level since July
Over the last week (week ending 20 October), new cases of COVID-19 in Central Bedfordshire have gone up to levels last seen in July. The number of new cases rose by 346 to 1,311 (445.8 cases per 100,000). Sadly, there were two deaths registered in our area in the last reporting week.
The reports from our neighbours show that case numbers are extremely high and increasing rapidly across the area:
- Bedford - 850 new cases, up 152 (486.6 cases per 100,000) with 1 death reported
- Luton - 863 new cases, up 46 (404.2 cases per 100,000) with 2 deaths reported
- Milton Keynes – 1,182 new cases, up 210 (437.4 cases per 100,000) and 2 deaths reported
As the Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, said in Downing Street yesterday, this pandemic is not over, and it remains a threat. Nationally case numbers are extremely high and rising rapidly with the government warning it could reach 100,000 new cases a day.
Although the number of people going into hospital with COVID-19 or dying is nowhere near the levels we saw prior to vaccinations, the numbers are rising.
To protect ourselves and others and to avoid a return to restrictions, the most important thing we can all do is to get fully vaccinated.
Booster jabs
Booster jabs are now available for the following people:
The NHS will contact you when you're eligible to book using this service.
If you have not been contacted but it's been 6 months and 1 week (189 days) since your 2nd dose, please try to book your appointment using this service.
You can also use this service if you're a frontline health and social care worker. You'll only be able to book an appointment for a booster dose if it's been at least 6 months (182 days) since your 2nd dose of the vaccine.
Find out more and book here
First and second doses
For people who have not yet had their second or even first jab, it is never too late.
Anyone over 16 can book an appointment online or visit a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site without an appointment.
School children
From this Saturday, 23rd October, parents and guardians of 12-15 year olds will receive a letter inviting them to book their COVID-19 vaccination at local centres via the National Booking System if they have not already had the vaccine at school.
Stay safe
We can also keep ourselves and others safe by continuing to follow the guidance:
- Let fresh air in if you meet indoors. Meeting outdoors is safer
- Wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces
-
Get tested and self-isolate if required
- Keep washing your hands regularly
- If you haven’t already, get vaccinated
Find out how to stay safe and help prevent the spread
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