By Tatiana Zaitui –
Kirklees’ COVID-19 infection rate has increased by 4 per cent over the past week, in line with the national trend, while hospitalisations and deaths have also risen slightly.
Cases and Hospitalisations
The current Kirklees infection rate is 348 people per 100,000, a four per cent across the borough since last week. This is in line with the national average, which is 347.9 people per 100,000.
Hospital admissions have increased to 48, rising from 37 last week, and sadly 9 more people died from COVID-19 related complications. Admissions are still high amongst the 20-39 age group.
Vaccinations
As of the time of writing, 288,000 Kirklees residents have had their first dose, and 266,000 of those have received their second.
Everyone over the age of 16 is being urged to book their vaccination now, in order to reduce the chances of becoming seriously ill with COVID-19.
There are a number of walk-in vaccination clinics available across Kirklees. Residents can use the NHS site finder to find their nearest walk-in clinic, including those vaccinating over 16s.
National Figures
So far nationally, 48,528,901 people have had their first dose, with 44,298,076 people receiving their second.
‘Positive Vaccine Rollout’
Speaking on the latest figures, Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Strategic Director for Public Health at Kirklees Council, said: “The vaccine rollout is having a really positive impact and is absolutely the best thing you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.
“By taking both the first and second doses of the vaccine you are protecting yourself and will also reduce your chances of passing Covid-19 on to someone who could become severely ill.
“Just because you’re young and healthy, there’s no guarantee Covid-19 won’t significantly impact your health and we are still seeing hospital admissions rise amongst younger age groups.
“The best way to protect yourself, whatever your age, is to take the vaccine.
“Regular rapid lateral flow testing is so important to help stop the spread of the virus, even if you have been vaccinated.
“Rapid lateral flow testing identifies those who do not have Covid symptoms but may have the virus and be spreading it unknowingly.”
All data is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change as figures are updated.