Covid-19: Brighton & Hove stays in Tier 2

Today’s national tier review has confirmed that Brighton & Hove remains in Tier 2 – High Alert.

The city's Director of Public Health, Alistair Hill, said: “We are very concerned that our local case numbers are increasing very rapidly.

"So I am asking everyone to do everything possible to stop Covid-19 spreading further.

“In the seven days up to 11 December we had 283 confirmed new cases in Brighton & Hove. This is a 61% increase in the rate from the previous week. 

"Based on emerging data, we expect numbers will continue to rise significantly in the coming days. 

“The increase in cases seen across the South East is affecting NHS services. The number of Covid-19 patients in hospitals across in the region is at its highest since late April, and is rising rapidly in some areas. 

“It is almost certain that household mixing over Christmas will lead to greater transmission, more cases and more hospital admissions at what is the busiest time of the year for the NHS.

“It is vital that everyone considers carefully how they can minimise the risk to themselves, their loved ones and their community. 

"When making your Christmas plans, please think very carefully about the risks associated with them.  

"Please meet as few people as possible, for as short a time as possible, and travel safely.”