14/10/2021 - Permalink

Coronavirus: COVID-19 cases fall slightly between 1-7 October 2021, but infections still very high locally

Related topics: Coronavirus / Health / Partner organisations

During the seven-day period between 1-7 October 2021:   

  • 1,376 new cases reported 
  • A decrease of 13% on the previous week   
  • The 7-day infection rate for Shropshire was 422.8 per 100,000
  • It was 414.0 per 100,000 for the West Midlands, and 355.3 for England
  • 30 hospital beds were occupied by COVID-19 patients
  • 5 COVID-19-related deaths in a local hospital   
COVID-19 statistics locally, 1-7 October 2021 infographic

COVID-19 statistics locally, 1-7 October 2021

Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council’s director of public health, said:-

“The number of positive cases has fallen slightly again, but the rate of infection remains very high in Shropshire. There is still widespread community transmission, particularly in schools where we are currently dealing with 81 schools who have had two or more linked cases. We continue to work closely with schools to try and minimise the spread of the virus. I have also written to every school in the county encouraging headteachers to reintroduce measures to minimise the spread of the virus. 

“Sadly, during this period there were five COVID-19-related deaths in Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals. With more people socialising now restrictions have eased, viruses like coronavirus and the flu will have greater opportunity to spread this winter. The NHS is already under enormous pressure so please do whatever you can to keep yourself fit and healthy. 

“This year it’s more important than ever to protect yourself by getting the COVID-19 booster and flu vaccine if you are eligible. Basic measures like hands-face-space-fresh air will also help.” 

Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care and public health, added:

“Our public health team is working extremely hard with settings like schools and care homes to try and control the spread. We can all play our part by wearing face coverings in crowded places, social distancing where necessary, ventilating rooms properly and washing our hands regularly.  

“We have also temporarily extended the opening hours of the PCR testing sites in Market Drayton and Ludlow during weekdays. You can now book a test from 9am to 6pm. If you have any symptoms, even if it’s mild, it’s best to check and get a test.”