Rate of Covid cases in Wakefield at lowest point since December - but still far above the national average

According to the latest Public Health England data, the rate of cases in the district has now fallen to 151.6 per 100,000, its lowest point since mid-December.

But this remains significantly higher than the national average case rate, which currently stands at around 94.9 per 100,000.

Teachers in Wakefield 'anxious' ahead of return to classroom - despite new guidance on facemasks and testing in schools

At least 2,328 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in the district since the start of February, and 148 people are currently receiving hospital treatment for the virus.

More than 95,000 people have now received at least one dose of a Covid vaccine - though uptake rates are higher in some areas than others.Councillor Faith Heptinstall, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, said: “Thanks to all the hard work of people across the district to stay at home as much as possible.

“Although we are continuing to see a slow and steady drop in rates week on week, cases are still very high and not coming down as quickly as we would like.

“The Government roadmap out of lockdown is a great boost to all of us but the reality is our rates still remain high and so it is absolutely crucial we all keep going and continue to follow the important guidance and restrictions currently in place.”

Anyone presenting with symptoms of Covid-19 is urged to book a test by visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus, or calling 119.