Coronavirus rise in Peterborough: follow the rules to stop further restrictions and avoid mixing indoors

There were 194 confirmed Covid-19 cases in Peterborough on Thursday which is a rate of 95.9 per 100,000 population - just shy of the 100 mark quoted by London Mayor Sadiq Khan among others as a possible trigger to move from tier 1 up to tier 2.

And although the higher figures can be partially put down to the success of a new testing site in Gladstone, director of public health in Peterborough and Cambridgeshire Dr Liz Robin has urged residents to make sure they follow the rules to prevent Peterborough’s NHS and economy suffering.

She said: “We can see what’s happening nationally. Rates are going up and we know those rates are also going up in Peterborough and wider Cambridgeshire. 

“What I think is positive is back in July Peterborough was in the top 10 for Covid rates in the country and now we’re below the national average. It shows all the hard work communities have done in Peterborough.

“But we’re also very aware that there are more cases in Peterborough than in August and at the beginning of September. 

“We need to renew our energy and go even further with what we’re doing to keep people safe. There will be more campaigns and more joint messages to make sure we’re doing everything we can to stop the spread of this virus. 

“We want to protect our communities, our hospital, our NHS and to protect jobs. The best way to do that is for people to understand how Covid-19 transmitted is through social contacts. Do the right things and follow the rules.”

Although residents in Peterborough currently only need to follow the ‘rule of six’, Dr Robin stressed that it is much safer to meet people from other households outdoors rather than inside and to work from home where possible.

Asked if there was a risk of Peterborough moving up to the second of three tiers for Covid-19 alert levels, she replied: “We are expecting a bit more of a range of issues to be taken into account than rates per 100,000. The Government is also looking at pressure on hospitals and if it’s spreading among the older population. They would also speak to local leaders.

“We want to do as much as we can working with communities to keep the spread down and not be in a position where we’re under national direction. 

“But some of the things that are suggested for the higher tier, in particular avoiding mixing with other households indoors, are good ways to stop the spread of the virus.

“I would encourage people to avoid mixing with people with other households indoors. Outside is safer. So I would go beyond the rule of six.

“We also need to think about travel to work because we know working from home can help to reduce that R (reproduction) rate. 

“The national government has given a directive to try and work from home where you can. 

“We’re seeing trips to work are still going up so the message is not being heard. Where people can work from home they should try to do that.”

Dr Robin praised the effect of the new testing centre near Gladstone Park, adding: “The number of people visiting is going up. It makes testing much more accessible to local people. 

“We do expect to see some increase in case rates, but that’s a good thing as people who may not have found it easy to get a test before are being tested and their contacts identified. 

“We may see a further increase in case rates. We have to accept that and it’s absolutely what we want so people can get tested locally.”

The introduction of patrols in busy Peterborough areas is also paying dividends, Dr Robin stated.

“What I’m hearing is we’ve had a positive response from communities on the role of marshals. Having them there has made a difference. 

“It’s brought home to people that the situation is serious.”

Dr Robin also wanted to remind people of the rules regarding self-isolation. 

Anyone with symptoms should self-isolate, alongside members of their household.

The person with symptoms should then get a test, and if it comes back positive they need to self-isolate for 10 days and their close contacts for 14 days.

People needing support to do this should ring 01733 747474 as a hardship fund is available, as well as help getting hold of food and medicine.

Dr David Edwards, consultant in health protection for Public Health England East, said: “Covid-19 rates continue to rise in the East of England and we are now seeing a spike amongst our over-60s population. We need to work together to protect ourselves, our loved ones, the elderly and the vulnerable in society.

“As we enter the flu season it is more important than ever to be vaccinated - this will help build a defence not only for you but for those around you. As we are seeing a rise of Covid cases in our elderly we ask they get their free flu jab to protect them from influenza - fighting Covid and flu at the same time is not something we want to see in our elderly and vulnerable population.

“Please continue to take action to help prevent Covid spreading - stick to the rule of six and social distancing; wear face coverings and regularly wash your hands.”