City to stay in the medium tier

PORTSMOUTH will not enter a stricter lockdown despite having rates near towns that have entered higher restrictions, according to the city’s health boss.

The infection rate in Portsmouth continues to be the highest in Hampshire and has now increased to a rate of 135.9 new cases per 100,000 people in the seven days to October 17.

The city is currently in the medium tier, the lowest lockdown tier, but towns with rates similar have entered into higher lockdown tiers in order to curb a rise in cases.

But Helen Atkinson, director of public health at Portsmouth City Council, said the city remains at the medium tier.

Ms Atkinson told The News: ‘Data on positive cases in Portsmouth show that infections are increasing, but remain much lower than many other areas in the UK.

‘There are a number of factors that impact on the tier category an area is in, including the rates of infection but also whether there are growing numbers of linked cases that are classed as outbreaks, which remain low in Portsmouth currently.

‘This local intelligence is regularly reviewed as part of the Outbreak Control Plan.

‘Portsmouth is currently in the Government’s Medium Tier and will remain so until such time as local leaders, informed by the evidence, decide more change is needed to help contain the infection rates in Portsmouth.

‘We encourage all residents and businesses to do their bit to help contain and reduce the spread of coronavirus, by following the Government's guidance.’