17/02/2022 - Permalink

Coronavirus: COVID-19 cases falling but caution urged as hospitals under pressure

Related topics: Coronavirus / Health / Partner organisations

During the seven-day period between 9-16 February 2022:

  • 1,850 new COVID-19 cases reported
  • 38% decrease on last reported figures
  • The 7-day infection rate for Shropshire was 568.5 per 100,000
  • It was 542.3 per 100,000 for the West Midlands, and 624.4 for England
  • 47 beds were occupied by COVID-19 patients
  • 2 COVID-19-related deaths in local hospitals
COVID-19 weekly stats 9-16 Feb 2022 infographic

COVID-19 weekly stats 9-16 Feb 2022

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

It is really encouraging to see the number of COVID-19 cases falling; however, we do need to be cautious when interpreting the data because of the recent changes to testing, removing the need for a confirmatory PCR.

It is also really positive that there are less people being treated for COVID-19 in our local hospitals. During this time, there were two deaths in hospital.

During the last week Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals declared two ‘critical incidents’. There is exceptionally high demand for NHS services, as well as the ongoing impacts from COVID-19. We know the vast majority of people who fall seriously ill with the virus and need hospital treatment, are not vaccinated, so please protect yourself.

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

Seeing the cases falling is brilliant news, but we must still be cautious, especially given the situation in our local hospitals.

Next week is half-term and lots of families will be enjoying time off and days out. Please consider wearing a face covering if you’re in crowded areas, or think about opening a window to the let the fresh air in if you’re mixing indoors. Washing your hands regularly will also help to minimise the spread of the virus. 

It is also important to not socialise if you’re feeling unwell. You must get a PCR test to check for COVID-19. There are still lots of vulnerable people and this will help protect them.

Half-term is also a good opportunity to get the COVID-19 vaccine and there are plenty of places around the county where you can walk-in and get one without an appointment. Alternatively, click here to book an appointment.