CASES of Covid in Warwickshire have nearly quadrupled in a month – prompting warnings from health bosses that the virus has not gone away.
With almost 500 people in hospital for Covid in Coventry and Warwickshire, the NHS in the region is urging people to take steps to protect themselves, others and the health service.
Cases of the virus had soared to 1,927 per 100,000 by early January, compared with 478 per 100,000 a month previously.
And on top of the 500 people in the region’s hospitals with Covid-19, hospitals in the wider area have reported a steep increase in admissions because of the virus.
Although numbers in Intensive Care Units (ICU) remain stable, around 70 per cent of those patients in ICU with Covid are unvaccinated.
Clinical Chair of Coventry and Warwickshire Clinical Commissioning Group, Dr Sarah Raistrick, has warned the Omicron variant can still be dangerous to those who are unvaccinated.
She said: “Covid-19 has not gone away and the new variant, Omicron, is rapidly spreading in the community. There is a misconception that symptoms of Omicron are mild for everyone, but they can be extremely serious for some people, particularly those who are not vaccinated.
“It’s vital to get your booster when you are eligible – three months after your second dose – to boost your immunity this winter and help the NHS.
“Two jabs aren’t enough to protect from Omicron, but a booster really does its job in boosting immunity to offer a good level of protection. Studies have shown that it reduces the risk of symptomatic disease from the Omicron variant by up to 75 per cent.”
The NHS has issued the following advice to residents:
- Get vaccinated. Whether it’s the first, second or booster dose – it’s not too late
- Wash hands well and often
- Wear a face covering in crowded places
- Practice social distancing where appropriate.
Those who have recently had a positive Covid-19 test need to wait 28 days before they can have your first, second or booster vaccination.
Visit www.happyhealthylives.uk/vaccinationdrop-ins for walk-in opening times and www.happyhealthylives.uk/vaccination-sites for bookable sites.
Visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus for the latest guidance.
