As cases rise concern that people are having second vaccine also rises
As coronavirus cases and deaths rise in Shropshire there has been a warning that thousands of people in Shropshire who have had their first coronavirus jab still haven't had their second.
Shropshire Council says the rise is a reminder that Covid-19 is still in the community.
During the seven-day period between August 6-12 there were 878 new cases reported - an increase of 40 per cent on the previous week . The seven day infection rate for Shropshire was 269.8 per 100,000, compared to 301.0 per 100,000 for the West Midlands, and 303.6 in England
During the week 20 hospital beds were occupied by Covid-19 patients and there were three Covid-related deaths.
Shropshire’s director of public health, Rachel Robinson, said: "As expected, cases are rising again in Shropshire after restrictions were lifted last month. We have also unfortunately seen a rise in deaths this week. This is a reminder that Covid-19 is still in our communities and the importance of vaccination and good control measures.
"During this time period, six of the 20 Covid-19 patients in Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals were in the high dependency unit or intensive care unit. Please get both doses of the vaccine to give yourself the best protection against the virus if you do catch it.
"Sadly, three people lost their lives to Coronavirus and I know looking at more recent data that more have died in hospital since. With this in mind, be extra cautious going forward. Wearing face masks, social distancing, proper ventilation and good hand hygiene will help to stop the spread in Shropshire. These measures, along with regular testing and getting two doses of the vaccination, are still vitally important. Such simple steps can help to save lives.
Councillor Dean Carroll, cabinet member for public health, said: "My thoughts go out to the families who have lost someone to this terrible virus. Please let this be a reminder that Covid-19 is still with us and there are lots of things we can do to prevent the spread and make Shropshire a safer place to live.
"Some good news is that 16 and 17-year-olds are now eligible for the vaccine. It’s really easy to get jabbed here in Shropshire with walk-in clinics and pop-up events dotted around the county – you don’t even need an appointment. There is still some concern that there are thousands of residents who have had their first dose but haven’t had their second. If this is you, please don’t delay any longer. If you have concerns, you can talk it through with a healthcare professional first."
