Council publishes latest COVID-19 data for the Wakefield district

The figures show that for the latest set of weekly data (week 38, between September 14 and 20) Wakefield’s positive case rate has increased from the previous week – from 35.7 to 37.4 positive cases (per 100,000 population).

The previous week’s figure of 27.5 positive cases featured on the last dashboard was revised during the week due to ongoing Public Health England data validation processes.

The information, compiled by the Public Health team, shows the most useful information about what’s happening now and what has happened in recent weeks, so that people can understand how the virus is currently affecting the district’s population and if the situation is improving, getting worse or staying the same.

The dashboard published today (Monday September 28) shows the available data up to September 20. It includes the ‘watchlist’ information produced each week by Public Health England which categorises local authorities based on a number of key measures.

Coun Faith Heptinstall, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, said: “We’re continuing to see a steady increase in positive cases. We must not be complacent. COVID-19 remains a real threat to us all and I urge everyone to continue taking action to reduce the spread of infection and stop any further measures being imposed on the district as we’ve seen in neighbouring areas.”

Anna Hartley, Director of Public Health for the Wakefield district, said: “Please act now - isolate and get tested if you have any symptoms. If you do not have any of the symptoms of coronavirus - of a high temperature, a new continuous cough or loss of taste or smell - please do not get a test as we need to make sure tests are readily available for those who really need them.

“We are seeing a trend of mild symptoms among those testing positive, particularly in younger people. So I urge people – please do not ignore any symptoms you might have, as you could unwittingly be spreading the virus to others who may be more vulnerable and at risk.

“Remember that you can make a massive impact on your own health and the health of family and friends if you keep following the new measures set out by Government and these simple rules:

*Wear a face covering, if you can, in any enclosed public space

*Maintain social distancing, wherever possible

*Avoid any hugging or close contact with anyone outside your household

*Avoid car sharing with anyone outside your household, if you can

*Maintain regular handwashing

*Stick to six – no social gatherings of more than six people indoors or outdoors.”

Wakefield Council is continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation across the district with effective monitoring to map relevant data and spot trends, which acts as an early warning system.

Working with partners, Wakefield Council has been actively supporting the businesses and communities affected by the previous outbreaks to limit any spread, as well as working closely with partners and local communities to try and ensure everyone knows the symptoms and how to access testing.

A local testing offer for COVID-19 has opened in Wakefield, to work alongside and to enhance the national programme.

Residents in the district who suspect they have symptoms of the virus can now access tests via a home delivery service but people are urged to try the national system first

Those without symptoms (asymptomatic) should not be seeking a test unless they have been advised to do so by a health professional, Public Health England or the Council’s public health teams – it could take a test away from someone who really needs it.

The local testing service is available from Monday to Friday and bookings for appointments can be made at www.nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test or by calling 01924 224497. Or email the person’s name and contact details to [email protected] so the booking team can get in touch.

Anyone displaying coronavirus symptoms is urged to get a test by accessing local testing or by visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus or calling 119.

The dashboard and briefing can be found here.