Residents of Northampton urged to taken action as cases rise
(Original article at https://northamptonshirehcp.co.uk/2020/07/residents-of-northampton-urged-to-taken-action-as-cases-rise/)
Latest government figures published this week (22 July) show that the coronavirus infection rate in the borough of Northampton remains above the national rate (455.6 per 100,000) and regional average at 535.2 per 100,000.
The rate of infection is increasing and the amount of positive tests are also increasing within the borough. This increase in the infection rate means that we need to take action now to prevent further spread of the virus.
The increase does not appear to be related to one specific incident or a single method of transmission, therefore residents of Northampton are being asked to follow additional guidance to that being shared nationally, to protect the local community and reduce transmission rates.
This guidance is as follows:
“Cases are rising in Northampton, you and your community are at risk, act now”.
- Limit contact with others outside of your household or bubble
- Work from home if you can
- Keep 2 metres from others at all times, use a face covering where you are less than 2 metres apart
- Avoid using public transport or car sharing, wear face coverings if you cannot avoid these
- If you have COVID-19 symptoms, stay at home, self-isolate and get a test
- Avoid meeting those outside of your household or bubble in an indoor space
- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly for 20 seconds each time
- Do not share items with others outside of your household or bubble
- If you have COVID-19 symptoms, do not go to work, either work from home or report sick, self-isolate and get a test
- Even if you only have mild COVID-19 symptoms, get a test
- If you are contacted by test and trace and asked to self-isolate, stay at home for 14 days
“We are concerned that coronavirus cases in Northampton remain higher than we would like them to be, so we are issuing a set of messages to the residents of Northampton to help us to start to reduce the level of transmission. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, however mild, get tested and self-isolate. It is essential that the public follow the guidance and that everyone acts responsibly in reducing the risk of transmission and protecting those in our communities who are most vulnerable.”
Councillor Ian Morris, Portfolio holder for Public Health at Northamptonshire County Council
Tests can be booked online at nhs.uk/coronavirus from 6pm today (Wednesday) or by calling 119. Home testing kits can also be ordered subject to availability.
Cllr Jonathon Nunn, Leader of Northampton Borough Council added: “We have been urging caution for a number of weeks, but now we are asking for action from our local residents. If we follow the additional advice provided now, and if we are successful in reducing our rate of transmission, we can avoid having to introduce further restrictive measures.”
A mobile testing unit is being deployed in the town centre from Thursday 23 July through to Monday 27 July, enabling more local people to get a drive-through or walk-in test closer to where they live.
Public Health Northamptonshire and Northampton Borough Council are working with local community groups and key influencers within the local communities to ensure that all sectors of the local population have access to and understand the latest guidance.
