Covid cases continue to fall as lockdown easing roadmap approaches

Over 70,000 people in Brighton & Hove have now received their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine and rates of infection in the city continue to fall.

In the seven days up to 26 February there were 134 confirmed new Covid-19 cases in Brighton & Hove. This is equivalent to a weekly rate of 46 per 100,000 residents and lower than England at 91 per 100,000 and the South East at 61 per 100,000

The number of inpatients needing treatment for Covid-19 in our local hospitals is also continuing to come down. On 3 March, there were 36 inpatients with Covid-19 at the Royal Sussex County Hospital including 11 patients in need of critical care.

Alistair Hill, Director of Public Health, said: “We have come a long way from the peak at the start of the year and we should be proud of our achievement.

"As a city we have pulled together to keep to the guidelines and drive down the rates of infection. But our weekly reduction is beginning to slow down now, in common with other areas in the south east.

“Next week, restrictions will start to ease as the first step of the government’s roadmap back to a more normal way of life begins. It will be wonderful to see schools and colleges reopen.

"It’s welcome news that we’ll be able to go to outdoor public places for recreation with our household, support bubble or one person from outside our household.

“But we must not forget that the 'Stay at Home' regulation remains in force until at least 29 March. That means you should continue to work from home if possible. Meeting in groups and traveling outside your local area is still not allowed.

“If the rate of infection goes up again, this will delay the lifting of restrictions. The government’s roadmap also depends on the success of the vaccination programme.

“More people are being invited to book a vaccination appointment as the NHS programme works through the priority groups.

"You will be contacted directly by the NHS or your GP when it is your turn. As soon as you are contacted, please do not delay booking your vaccination.”