30/09/2021 - Permalink

Coronavirus: COVID-19 cases increase 48% locally during 17-23 September

Related topics: Coronavirus / Health

During the seven-day period between 17-23 September 2021: 

  • 1,490 new cases reported 
  • An increase of 48% on the previous week  
  • The 7-day infection rate for Shropshire was 457.9 per 100,000 
  • It was 386.5 per 100,000 for the West Midlands, and 318.8 for England 
  • 43 hospital beds were occupied by COVID-19 patients 
  • 7 COVID-19-related deaths in a local hospital 
COVID-19 stats locally 17-23 September 2021 infographic

COVID-19 stats locally 17-23 September 2021

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

“We continue to see widespread community transmission right across Shropshire, which has led to a significant increase in COVID-19 cases. The majority of outbreaks are currently focused in places like schools where there are large groups of unvaccinated young people together, after previously low infection rates. We continue to work with schools to manage outbreaks, and this week have reissued recommendations for schools to consider detailing the public health measures which have helped to minimise the spread of the virus in the past.  

“Since the third Lockdown eased, the number of people in hospital with COVID-19 has remained high and I am sad to report a further seven deaths. Wearing face coverings, social distancing where necessary, good hand hygiene and proper ventilation is really important at this time when the virus is spreading so rapidly in our communities. 

“The testing rate in Shropshire is higher than the national average, which means we are successfully finding the infections. This is key to stopping the spread. If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, no matter how mild, it’s important to get a PCR test. An additional mobile testing unit will be in Cleobury Mortimer this weekend, based at Lacon Childe School.”  

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

“Please ensure you are doing everything you can to keep yourselves and our communities safe during this difficult time. Cases are rising, but there are lots of measures we can take to protect ourselves. 

“There are still people in Shropshire who are eligible for the vaccine, whether it be the first or second dose. If you have been putting it off, please don’t delay any longer. The majority of people in our hospitals with COVID-19 are unvaccinated. If you have any concerns or worries, speak to your GP or the healthcare team at one of the county’s walk-in clinics.” 

You can book your vaccination via the national booking service or drop in at a walk-in clinic. 

To find out more about testing in Shropshire, click here.