COVID-19 cases are still high and the impact on hospitals is increasing
Over the last week (week ending 10 November), new cases of COVID-19 in Central Bedfordshire have fallen by 349 to 1,397 (475.0 cases per 100,000). Although new cases have dropped we are still higher than our neighbours. Sadly there were six deaths in the last reporting week and we have seen another increase in the number of people in our local hospitals with COVID-19.
The headlines from our neighbours are below:
- Bedford - 697 new cases, down 100 (399.0 cases per 100,000) with 3 deaths reported
- Luton - 889 new cases, down 30 (416.3 cases per 100,000) with 6 deaths reported
- Milton Keynes - 1,065 new cases, down 195 (394.1 cases per 100,000) and 3 deaths reported
Stop COVID-19 hanging around
While life-saving vaccines remain our best defence against COVID-19 – giving over 90% protection against hospitalisation from the virus – people can still catch COVID-19 even if they have been double vaccinated. With around 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 showing no symptoms, it could be passed onto others without knowing.
Small but important actions can help protect us against COVID-19. Getting vaccinations, wearing a face covering in enclosed spaces and taking regular COVID-19 tests all make an important difference but it is also crucial that we don’t overlook the value of ventilation.
With fewer restrictions in place this winter, letting fresh air in the home when you have visitors is even more important for everyone to keep infections down.
People with COVID-19 release virus particles into the air whenever they speak, breathe or cough and these can linger in unventilated settings. With winter fast approaching and people spending more time indoors, it’s vital everyone understands the importance of using ventilation, such as regularly opening windows – even if just for a few minutes – to keep the air moving and prevent infections.
With cases of COVID-19 still at very high levels it is vital to remember the simple actions we can take to reduce the risk of catching COVID-19:
- Make sure you open your windows for a few minutes at a time if you have guests.
- Wear a face covering
- Continue to take regular rapid lateral flow tests to help give you peace of mind that you’re not spreading the virus
- Get a PCR test if you have any symptoms
- Above all get vaccinated and get your COVID-19 vaccination booster if you’re eligible.
You can now book your COVID-19 Booster jab a month ahead
You can now pre-book your booster appointment a month before you are eligible, making it easier and more convenient to get a vaccine.
Everyone aged over 50 and all those most at risk from COVID-19 should get a booster six months after their second dose. Currently, someone can only book an appointment at six months.
Now you can to book your appointment after five months. This means that someone could pre-book their jab for the day they reach the six-month milestone, rather than waiting days or weeks for a convenient appointment.
Book here
Don't miss your flu vaccine
Flu is another winter virus that can be serious. To give yourself the best protection over winter, those eligible for a free flu vaccine should come forward and book an appointment at either their GP practice or their local pharmacy, or take it up when offered by their employer or other healthcare provider.
Get your flu vaccine
Not had your jab yet?
If you haven't had your first or second COVID-19 vaccine you can still get it. Vaccines are available free of charge from thousands of vaccine centres, GP practices and pharmacies.
Book your vaccine here
Or find a walk-in centre
12-15 year olds
Vaccines are also available for those aged 12-15 to offer the best possible protection this winter in schools, as well as over 200 vaccine centres. If your child is between 12 and 15 they can get their vaccine at school or you can book an appointment here
You can help us by sharing this information as widely as possible, through your social media and WhatsApp groups.
You can share quickly and easily via the share now button below.
|
