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 that the number of new cases in Cumbria continues to be broadly static, with 56 new cases in the week ending 14 August, compared to 57 cases the previous week.
The county council’s Director of Public Health, Colin Cox is still reminding people to continue to be vigilant and follow social distancing guidelines and good hygiene measures. In particular, people are being advised to wear face coverings in taxis following some concerns about the potential for spread in this setting.
The local multi-agency Cumbria Health Protection Board is continuing to monitor the situation closely.
There is no change to the local public health advice.
Colin Cox, Cumbria’s Director of Public Health, said: “It’s positive that we are not seeing any increase in the number of new infections, but we can only keep the numbers low if people continue to follow the guidance. The experience in other parts of the North West shows how easily things could turn.
“This week we are also advising people to start wearing face coverings in taxis. It is not a legal requirement, unlike on public transport, but our local experience of contact tracing has shown that sharing taxis may have been a factor in some examples of infection spread. Wearing a face covering is a simple thing to do that can help reduce the risk of transmission.”
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
