Harrogate’s Covid infection rate has jumped by more than 25% in just three days amid the rapid spread of the Omicron variant.
Harrogate’s Covid infection rate has jumped by more than 25% in just three days amid the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. The weekly rate per 100,000 people currently stands at 476 – up sharply from 376. This equates to around 110 new cases per day and comes as people are being urged to think carefully about social events this Christmas as a further rise in infections is expected. Richard Webb, director of health and adult services at North Yorkshire County Council, said the area was now facing a “race against time” to prepare for a similar surge in cases seen in other areas of the country. He said:
"If we follow previous patterns, and what’s happening in London, it won’t be long before we are seeing high numbers of Omicron cases here in North Yorkshire. "Even the most optimistic Government modelling is now projecting many more cases in January and February and we face the possibility of many more hospital admissions and sadly many more deaths. "Living with Covid means responding quickly to deal with a new variant. We need to act now to buy time."Mr Webb also said people should take a lateral flow test before mixing socially and that getting a booster vaccine remained the best line of defence. The vaccination programme has been rapidly accelerated in recent weeks with firefighters now being drafted in to deliver doses at sites across North Yorkshire. James Manning, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue group manager said:
"This is an urgent situation and the time involved is substantial in getting these vaccines where they need to be. "For this reason the key agencies have come together to provide the best possible service to people."In Harrogate, vaccines are being made available by appointments and walk-ins at several pharmacy sites as well as Harrogate’s Great Yorkshire Showground and Ripon Racecourse. For more information go to www.northyorkshireccg.nhs.uk/covid-19/getting-your-covid-booster-jab-in-north-yorkshire/ By Jacob Webster, Local Democracy Reporter Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.
Works to start on James Street in Harrogate
Harrogate Paralympic powerlifter to represent Team GB
Ripon classic car gathering to return this weekend
'A bad idea': Ripon council objects to lower speed limit on A61
Olympics to be screened at Victoria Shopping Centre
Harrogate cyclists set off on 600km fundraising trip to Paris
Harrogate care home shortlisted for national luxury care award
Amateur Harrogate football club helps men kick excess weight
Harrogate charity ball raises £14,000 to combat loneliness in older people
Harrogate's new MP speaks in Parliament for first time
New Harrogate outpost launched off coast of Africa
Maltkiln developer updates proposals for 4,000-home settlement
Harrogate bus firm awarded world's top quality and safety benchmarks
Knaresborough choir set to perform at prestigious London venues
Three teens arrested after violent incident in Bilton
Residents battle developer at 53-home Knox Lane inquiry
Popular village pub near Knaresborough is put up for auction
Alice in Wonderland trail launched in Ripon city centre
Ripon's Passport Scheme returns for the summer
Popular Harrogate venue to host family events throughout summer
