Bestwood Covid spike a ‘warning’ say residents
ESTATE HAS HIGHEST RATE IN NOTTS – BUT 400% RISE IS JUST TEN NEW CASES
PEOPLE living in an area with the highest Covid rate in Nottinghamshire say a recent rise in positive cases should not be ignored.
Bestwood Estate is the only area of Nottingham with a rate currently above 100 in the county, standing at 105.1 in the seven days leading to April 29.
This puts the area more than four times above the current national average.
However, with Covid rates so low across the country compared to the figures seen at the start of the year, this means fewer cases can cause a relatively big increase.
For example, in Bestwood Estate, 10 positive cases have been reported in the most recent seven-day period – which has led to a 400 percent rise in its infection rate week on week.
Residents say the figures shouldn’t be ignored and should serve as a warning to follow the rules going forward ahead of the next planned easing of restrictions later this month.
Paul Hamid, 56, an NHS worker, said: “It doesn’t surprise me to see the figures are rising.
“It’s not a massive cause for concern. We’re in a much better position than we were in before. It’s good to be so low compared to a few months ago.
“But I do think it’s a warning. I absolutely don’t think restrictions should be eased if the figures aren’t low enough.
“I know they want to open more things on May 17, but that should only happen if rates stay low.
“They need to base everything on the figures.”
Meanwhile, Kieran Marriott, 32, told the Post “I wasn’t aware of the figures for Bestwood.
“I am worried if there are a few more cases here. Hopefully everyone can follow the rules and it can go back down again.”
“I’m not actually from here but I live in Top Valley,” said 30-year-old Kyle Davies.
“I’m here quite a lot though, as my mum and sister live in Bestwood.
“I don’t think people should get too worried, although obviously I am worried about Covid and I want things to get back to normal.”
The news comes as one of the country’s leading scientists said he believes future lockdowns in this country are “unlikely” as he believes the UK is on a steady course out of the pandemic.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said social distancing could be scrapped within weeks, as he says the country is in a good position to continue with the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown.
The next stage of easing restrictions, if the figures continue to support it, is on May 17, when people will be able to be served inside pubs and restaurants, indoor entertainment venues such as cineams and theatres, will be able to reopen.
Organised outdoor gatherings would also be permitted ,as long as they follow Covid-secure guidance, and spectators will be allowed to return to elite sports events, albeit in limited numbers.