717 new COVID19 cases were reported in Cumbria in the week ending 16 October, up from 612 the previous week.

While Barrow continued to have the highest number of new cases (194), the infection rate decreased slightly over the previous week (295/100k to 289/100k), providing an early indication that the local restrictions that have been put in place may be having a positive impact. The area’s infection rate remains the highest in Cumbria and well above the national average (170/100k).

The Health Protection Board agreed that Barrow should remain a High Alert area.

Carlisle also saw a large rise in new cases compared the previous week, up from 87 to 190. A significant rise in Eden is also of concern but may be related to increased levels of testing in the district. Both areas now have an infection rate slightly higher than the national average and are being monitored closely, with consideration being given to whether further action may be required to reduce infection spread.

This week’s data also shows that for the first time since August the 45-59 year old age group saw the highest number of new cases, overtaking 15-29 year olds.

There were 50 confirmed COVID-19 patients in hospital beds in Cumbria compared to 29 the previous week.

The latest COVID-19 situation report can be found at www.cumbria.gov.uk/stopthespread.

Dr Matthew Saunders, Consultant in Public Health at Cumbria County Council, said:

“This week’s data for Barrow give cause for some cautious optimism but we are still a very long way from where we want to be. I’d want to thank people in Barrow for responding positively to the new rules that have come into force and it is essential that this effort continues.

“This situation in Carlisle, and to a lesser extent in Eden, gives cause for concern. The increase in new cases has been very fast and it may be that further action is needed to stop the spread, but this requires further discussion.  

“It remains the case that if people follow the guidance, reduce social contact, wash hands and wear a face covering then we can reduce infections and avoid the need to increase local alert levels.”

Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said:

“It is a highly effective and innovative piece of technology that we are utilising in Cumbria as a forward thinking force. This will create an additional layer of monitoring for RSO’s which will further help to keep communities safe.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall said:

“Safeguarding is a key part of Cumbria Constabulary’s core policing priorities and a large amount of police work that goes on to protect vulnerable people, is unseen, such as the use of polygraph tests to help with their investigations.

“The polygraphs are used to monitor for example, certain high-risk sex offenders. It records several bodily responses to indicate deception, such as blood pressure or sweaty palms, to detect traits associated with lying.

“If responses come back as deceptive from the polygraph test from for example a sex offender, it is not conclusive proof that the individual is lying, but it could lead to further investigation or supervision.

“Previously we have used Polygraph equipment from other forces and Cumbria now has its own polygraph equipment, with fully operational Polygraph Officers.

“It is essential to invest in equipment that assists with keeping vulnerable people in our communities safe.”

This week will also feature helpful and informative posts on the Constabulary’s social media accounts including, 999 calls and another instalment in the ‘day in the life’ series of videos showing how officers work to support vulnerable victims.

More information on Operation Movie can be found by clicking here.