Covid cases mapped as Stoke-on-Trent infection rate double national average
Although the rate of Covid cases has dropped from last week, the infection rate in Stoke-on-Trent is still more than double the national average. According to the latest Government figures, in the seven days to October 2, there were 3.96 new cases identified for every 100,000 people in the country.
Across Stoke-on-Trent, the rate is 8.91 per 100,000 people. That's a big drop from last week when the rate was 20.59, but does still remain higher than the national average.
Elsewhere in North Staffordshire, the rate of infection has soared in the Moorlands by more than 400 per cent - although it's still lower than the Stoke-on-Trent figure. The current rate is 7.29, compared to 1.35 the previous week, and now above the England average.
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In Newcastle-under-Lyme the rate of infection has remained the same at 7.32, according to the latest data. Despite the overall drop, rates of new infections are five times higher than the national average in some parts of the country.
You can see the latest rates of new infections in your local area using our interactive map
In Worcester there were the equivalent of 19.3 news cases per 100,000 people - the highest rate in the UK. Malvern Hills in Worcestershire had the next highest rate, with the equivalent of 17.51 new cases per 100,000 people. That's followed by Amber Valley (15.81), Carlisle (14.51), and Chesterfield (14.47).
Brits are still being urged to book their winter vaccines against the flu, covid-19 and RSV as soon as possible, with public health bosses warning the three viruses could combine into a 'tripledemic'. From September 23, millions of Brits over 65, care home residents and patients with health problems were offered to vaccinate against the ilnesses. Combined, the trio of viruses could trigger a "tripledemic" as we enter what is expected to be a challenging winter.
NHS vaccine chief Michelle Kane said: "Vaccination is a vital part of our preparations for what's expected to be another challenging winter. There are concerns about a potential ‘tripledemic’ of RSV, Covid-19 and flu during an already busy period. Vaccines help protect people — and those around them — so I would urge everyone eligible to get their flu, Covid-19 and RSV jabs booked." She added: "Booking is simple either online, via the NHS App or by calling 119."
The UK Health Security Agency's Dr Mary Ramsay said: "Our ongoing surveillance shows that Covid-19 continues to cause severe illness. It is putting many in hospital, particularly older people and those with underlying medical conditions. But it also shows that the autumn vaccines are effective in helping to give added protection to those most at risk.
"Vaccines almost halve the likelihood of hospitalisation from the virus for a few months following vaccination and over the winter period. I urge everyone who is eligible to take up the offer of a vaccine as soon as possible once invited. It will help improve your immunity to Covid-19, which does wane over time."
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