Spike in recorded positive COVID tests in Peterborough yesterday explained

Yesterday the number of positive tests recorded by Public Health England rose by 18 - almost the same number as had been recorded in Peterborough over the previous 14 days. There have bow been 487 positive tests.

MORE: Latest Peterborough COVID-19 statistics show drop in hospital deaths and positive tests

In the previous seven days the number of tests had risen by four, while in the previous week it rose by 16.

Today a Peterborough City Council spokesman said: “This is a spike related to local data reporting problems last month and is historical data for tests carried out some time ago that weren’t included on the dashboard at the time and is not related to recent tests.”

Last month a large spike in reported positive tests was adjusted following errors in recording which produced a false spike

North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Peterborough City and Hinchingbrooke Hospitals, said that in the past week there have been 10 new admissions to their hospitals due to coronavirus. In the same week last month there had been 82 admissions.

Caroline Walker, Chief Executive, for North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, said: “I can confirm that sadly, 246 patients being cared for in our Trust have passed away since we began reporting Covid-19-related deaths. There have been 98 at Hinchingbrooke Hospital and 148 at Peterborough City Hospital. All patients were aged 30 to 98 years old and had pre-existing health conditions. They had all tested positive for Covid-19.

“In the same period we have also successfully discharged 476 patients from our hospitals who were treated for Covid-19 and who are now recovering.

“Our thoughts and condolences remain with the patient’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.”