05/11/2021 - Permalink

Coronavirus: Local hospitals feeling ongoing effect of pandemic

Related topics: Coronavirus / Health

During the seven-day period between 22-28 October 2021:  

  • 1,216 new cases reported  
  • A decrease of 15% on the previous week  
  • The 7-day infection rate for Shropshire was 373.7 per 100,000  
  • It was 387.8 per 100,000 for the West Midlands, and 414.9 for England  
  • 37 hospital beds were occupied by COVID-19 patients
  • 5 COVID-19-related deaths in a local hospital  
COVID-19 weekly stats 22-28 October 2021

COVID-19 weekly stats 22-28 October 2021

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

“Although the figures for 22-28 October show another decrease in positive cases, we are already starting to see numbers increase again, and the number of people who are falling seriously ill and are needing hospital treatment is worrying. More recent data shows a huge increase in people at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals with COVID-19. The ongoing effects of the pandemic are being felt in our local hospitals and we must do everything we can to alleviate some of that pressure. 

“If you threw away your face coverings back in July when the third Lockdown was lifted, now is the time to consider wearing one again in busy places. The little things we can all do to prevent the spread of the virus, like hands-face-space-fresh air, will make a real difference.  

“Staying up to date with vaccines will also give you the best protection against COVID-19 and the flu. If you are eligible, please don’t delay.” 

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

“My thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have lost a loved one to COVID-19. This is a stark reminder that this virus is still very much in our communities and can have a devastating impact. 

“If you are feeling well, I urge you to do a Lateral Flow Test at home twice a week to check for COVID-19. This will hopefully catch people who do have the virus early on and prevent it from being spread further. Around a third of people with the virus do not show the classic symptoms. You can get tests from pharmacies, libraries and Shirehall in Shrewsbury.” 

Find out more about testing here.