A rise in confirmed COVID-19 cases across Liverpool has prompted public health officials to warn people that the virus is still prevalent and precautions still need to be taken.
The last two weeks have seen a steady increase in the rolling weekly total, although it is lower than other areas that have restrictions in place.
The cases are not confined to a specific area but are across the city, and the data shows that adults under 40 account for half.
With schools set to reopen next week, people are being urged remain vigilant to help try and avoid cases in the community and in schools and colleges.
As a result, a renewed appeal is being made, particularly to under 40s, to:
· Stick to social distancing – two metres whenever possible
· Wear face coverings in confined spaces, supermarkets and on public transport
· Use face coverings properly – from over the nose to under the chin, and avoid contamination when putting on and taking off
· Wash hands regularly
· Abide by the limits on household numbers
· Get tested if they have symptoms via the NHS website or calling 119
More information about symptoms – which include a continuous cough, high temperature and loss of taste and smells – is available at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.
The number of confirmed cases per ward in Liverpool is available here.
Director of Public Health, Matt Ashton, said: “It is really important that as schools start to reopen and more workplaces are getting back to normal, we all take responsibility and follow the guidance to limit the spread of cases as far as possible.
“We have worked really hard with schools over the last few months to put in place measures to make sure they are as safe as possible for our young people.
“The big risk is infection coming in to the school through the community, for example through people who don’t know they are carrying it mixing with staff or pupils outside and it infecting them. It is therefore essential that we all socially distance whenever possible, and when not , use face coverings
“This is not about us as individuals, this is about our children’s education, their future prospects and their emotional wellbeing.”
Councillor Paul Brant, Cabinet member for public health, said: “Communities have been absolutely brilliant in working with us to try and make sure we keep the number of cases low. It is really important we don’t let the sacrifices and progress of the last few months go to waste.
“This is about us all working together to protect each other, making sure we are not complacent and keeping cases under control. Every single one of us has a responsibility to others.”