West hit by 3,800 new Delta cases in past week

THE rise in the number of new cases of the Delta variant of Covid-19 recorded in the West more than doubled last week.

According to figures published by Public Health England yesterday there were 3,833 new cases of the variant in the South West in the seven days to July 7.

That compared with 1,657 new cases in the week to June 30 and 2,183 new cases in the week to June 23.

It brings the total number of cases recorded in the South West since the Delta variant was first tracked to 9,383.

Across the UK 99 per cent of newly diagnosed Covid-19 cases are Delta variant ones.

There were 700 new cases in Bristol last week taking the total number of Delta cases recorded in the city to 1,725, while neighbouring North Somerset and South Gloucestershire saw steep rises.

North Somerset’s total number of cases increased by 89.7 per cent to 351 from 185, while South Gloucestershire’s figures leapt by 68.1 per cent to 600 from 357.

From much lower base numbers cases more than doubled in Mendip (from 32 to 65) and Stroud (from 96 to 194). On a national level the number of Delta cases in the UK have risen by 54,268 since last week to a total of 216,249.

Dr Jenny Harries, chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency, said: “The data continues to show that the sharp increase in cases that we are seeing is not being followed by a similar increase in hospitalisation and death.

“This is because two doses of the available vaccines offer a high level of protection against the Delta variant. Getting both jabs is the best way to ensure you and the people you love remain safe, so we once again urge everyone to come forward as soon as they are eligible. “As we approach the planned end of restrictions, we must remain cautious and careful.

“Cases are rising across the country, and whilst the vaccines offer excellent protection, they do not offer 100% protection. Be sensible, and follow “hands, face, space, fresh air” at all times and make sure to get tested if required.”