The latest COVID-19 status report for Cumbria has been published. The weekly report sets out key statistics relating to COVID-19 infections in the county.
This week’s report shows a small increase in the number of cases in the county and has prompted a renewed call for people to continue to be vigilant, and follow social distancing guidelines.
The latest figures also show that Carlisle and Eden have some of the highest testing rates in England.
There are also high levels of contact tracing by the local teams across Cumbria.
While the increase in the number of cases is concerning, it remains well below the levels which have prompted local lockdown measures in Greater Manchester.
The local multi-agency Cumbria Health Protection Board is closely monitoring the situation.
There have been a total of 59 new positive cases confirmed in the county in the last week which is an increase of 12 on the week before.
In the week ending Tuesday August 4, local contact teams have traced 47 cases and identified 114 contacts.
There is no change to the local public health advice.
Colin Cox, Cumbria’s Director of Public Health, said: “While this very slight upward trend is not what we want to see, the numbers remain very low.
“We are not seeing the levels that have prompted the tightening of measures we have seen in other parts of the north west, most recently in Greater Manchester.
“We are also seeing increasing activity by our Cumbria teams who are actively contact tracing, and we are pleased to see both Carlisle and Eden as two of the highest areas for the number of tests being carried out in England
“It is also very clear that the virus is still circulating and being passed between local people in the community, so we must not think that the risk has gone away. Only by continued vigilance and following the basic public health guidance will we prevent the number of people being infected growing again. We are urging people living in, and visiting, Cumbria to adhere to social distancing guidelines, wash your hands regularly and to provide good quality contact details to any venues you visit. If you are getting a taxi we would also advise you to wear a mask and wear them in shops and other indoor settings where it is advised.”
The key public health messages remain:
- Wash or sanitise hands regularly
- Observe social distancing rules
- Wear face masks or coverings in enclosed public spaces
- If you have symptoms, self-isolate and get tested
- Follow advice to self-isolate if asked
