Western Daily Press (Saturday)
UK sees ‘widespread growth’ in Covid cases
THERE is “widespread growth” of the Covid-19 epidemic across the UK, Government scientists have warned, as ministers announced tough restrictions affecting around 13.5 million people.
The UK R number - which represents the number of people an infected person will pass the virus to - has risen to between 1.1 and 1.4, meaning cases can rise very quickly, according to Sage.
Public Health England (PHE) warned that data published on Friday could be a sign of “far worse things to come”, as the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said cases are thought to have almost doubled in a week to 6,000-a-day in England, its worst prediction since mid-May.
Kevin McConway, emeritus professor of applied statistics at the Open University, described the latest R figure as “undoubtedly concerning”.
He said: “Even at growth rates within the estimated range, the number of new cases could grow to high levels quickly if the interventions are not sufficiently effective.”
It comes as ministers discuss whether further national restrictions are needed, such as forcing pubs and restaurants to close at 10pm or curbs on people socialising.
Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock stressed the focus for now was local intervention, as he announced new restrictions for large parts of England’s North West, West Yorkshire and the Midlands.
He pointed to a worrying rise in cases, with Merseyside, Warrington, Halton and Lancashire - excluding Blackpool and Greater Manchester - escalated to “areas of intervention”.
From Tuesday, the following restrictions will be enforced in these places:
Residents must not socialise with other people outside of their own households or support bubble in private homes and gardens.
Restaurants, pubs and bars will be restricted to table service only, while all leisure and entertainment venues including restaurants, pubs and cinemas must close between 10pm and 5am.
Residents are also advised to avoid public transport unless it is essential, as well as professional or amateur sporting events.
The new rules do not apply to Bolton or Greater Manchester, where separate restrictions are already in place.
In the Midlands, people in Oadby and Wigston will be banned from socialising with others outside of their own household or support bubble in private homes and gardens from Tuesday.
In West Yorkshire, people in all parts of Bradford, Kirklees and Calderdale will be subject to the same ban on socialising.
Overall, around 13.5 million people are currently living under restrictions or will be from Tuesday.
Mr Hancock said: “We are seeing cases of coronavirus rise fast in Lancashire, Merseyside, West Yorkshire, Warrington, Halton and Wolverhampton.
“Local leaders in these areas have asked for stronger restrictions to be put in place to protect local people, and we are acting decisively to support them.
“I know these restrictions will make everyday life harder for many, but I know that residents will work together and respect the rules so we can reduce rates of transmission.”