Speaking at today’s Covid weekly virtual media briefing for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, Dr David Johns, Consultant in Public Health at Nottingham City Council and Jonathan Gribbin, Public Health Director for Nottinghamshire County gave updates on the current situation.
Jonathan Gribbin said: ‘ We approach Christmas with mixed feelings, we can see the vaccine in the future saving further lives in Nottingham- but between now and the vaccine relief we face stormy waters – rates in Nottinghamshire are on the rise, in every area infection rates have increased, except Bassetlaw which has seen a slight decrease.’ ‘Increases are in all age groups.’
‘When out shopping please be careful and stick to the rules. If you are planning a Christmas bubble think through carefully what you can do, perhaps increase ventilation, perhaps be outdoors for a walk longer than usual. If anyone has symptoms it isn’t wise to get together, try to keep some king of distance between you even indoors where possible.’ ‘Err on the side of caution.’
Dr David Johns said: ‘In the last week in the city we have seen five days of small increases, mainly below 60 years of age. It’s important, as Jonathan said, to think about how you plan Christmas bubbles and to seek testing for people with symptoms.’
Dr Andy Haynes, Executive Lead, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care System said: ‘Admissions are at 211 compared to 195 the week before. Bed occupancy is also increasing at 381 this week compared to 372 in previous week.’
