By KLTV Newsdesk –
Infection rates in Kirklees have fallen by almost half over the past seven days in line with the rest of the country, as the spread of the Omicron variant starts to abate.
Cases and Hospitalisations
In the last seven days, there were 5,156 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Kirklees. The current rate of infection is 1,168 per 100,000 people, a 44% decrease over the last period.
The number of people admitted to local hospitals in the same time period was 97, down by 1 from last week.
Sadly, there were four deaths in local hospitals due to Covid-19 in the last seven days.
Vaccinations
As of the time of writing, over 320,000 have received their first dose of the vaccine, and over 296,000 have received their second dose.
Additionally, over 217,000 residents have taken a third dose of the vaccine as a booster.
At a national level, 52,223,105 people have received at least one dose of the vaccine.
Residents can book their vaccine by appointment or visit one of the various walk-in clinics across Kirklees.
A full list of walk-in clinics can be found on the NHS site finder, and residents can book their first, second or booster vaccination by visiting the NHS national booking system.
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Restrictions
Earlier this month, several restrictions came into effect in England in order to help reduce the spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19.
This included encouragement to work from home and requirements of face coverings in schools and public places.
As of the time of writing, the majority of those restrictions have now been lifted.
From 27 January, people will no longer be required to wear a face covering, including in communal areas of schools, but the government suggests people continue to wear one in crowded and indoor spaces where they may come into contact with people they do not normally meet.
Additionally, there will no longer be any requirement to show an NHS COVID Pass at venues and events by law.
‘Saving Lives’
In a statement speaking on the latest figures, Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Strategic Director for Public Health at Kirklees Council, said: “Even though we are seeing a decrease in infection rates covid-19 is still very much with us and still spreading through our communities.
“We do know that data reflects how effective the vaccines and boosters are at saving lives and without the vaccination, we would be looking at very different numbers of hospitalisations and deaths in Kirklees.
“There will be a change in restrictions on Thursday 27 January, however, it is still important to get your booster if you haven’t had one yet. And it’s not too late to book your first or second vaccine either.
Rachel noted the continued pressure on health services due to a combination of Omicron, the expected winter challenges, and staff shortages due to the variant.
She added: “The best thing you can do to support our health service is to get vaccinated and boosted. Vaccines are highly effective at protecting us from serious illness and needing hospital treatment.
“At a time when so many NHS staff are isolating due to Covid-19, you can play your part in protecting the NHS by booking your jab today.”
