In the 7 days up to 26 November (based on data published on 1 December) we had 1559 confirmed new cases of COVID-19 in Brighton & Hove.
This is:
- up 16.3% on the previous 7 days
- equivalent to a weekly rate of 534.4 per 100,000 residents
- lower than the South East which was 581.7 per 100,000
- higher than the rate for England, which was 441.1 per 100,000
Due to concerns about the new Omicron variant, the government has introduced enhanced Covid measures this week.
The updated measures include: the requirement for face coverings to be worn in shops, public transport and other indoor settings; additional testing requirements for travel; and changes to the self-isolation rules for close contacts of anyone who has tested positive for a suspected or confirmed case of the Omicron variant.
Alistair Hill, Director of Public Health at Brighton & Hove City Council, said:
“Covid cases in the city have risen and are now higher than the average for England.
“The more we are out mixing with other households, the higher our chances of catching and spreading coronavirus, especially in crowded or enclosed spaces where there is limited fresh air or more people who might be infectious.
“This includes when we’re meeting friends for drinks, out shopping, or going to events leading up to Christmas.
“In these situations, we should be particularly careful to keep following the advice to protect each other from all Covid variants. And please encourage the people you’re meeting to do the same.
“Let’s do what we can to keep Brighton & Hove safe for everyone.”
What you can do to help keep yourself and others safe
Get your Covid vaccines, your booster and your flu jab when you’re offered it. View the latest advice on who is eligible and how to get your vaccines.
Take a rapid lateral flow test before you meet people who are at higher risk or if you will be in an enclosed or crowded space, or where there is limited fresh air. Please report all results and if you test positive you must self-isolate and order a PCR test. You can order tests online, collect from Jubilee Library or Hove Town Hall or pick them up at local pharmacies (using a collect code).
Stay at home if unwell, to reduce the risk of passing on other illnesses onto friends, family, colleagues and others in your community.
If you have any Covid symptoms or test positive with a lateral flow test, self-isolate immediately and get a PCR test. Continue to self-isolate if positive and access support if you need to.
Close contacts of someone who’s tested positive should get a PCR test and isolate if required.
Meet in well-ventilated areas where possible, such as outdoors or indoors with windows open. Opening a window for just 10 minutes every hour will help Covid particles to disperse.
Wear a face covering in all busy or enclosed spaces. It’s now compulsory to wear a face covering in shops and other indoor settings, as well as on public transport, unless exempt. Face coverings should also be worn in communal areas in all education settings by staff, visitors and students in year 7 and above.
Keep washing your hands regularly and use sanitiser when you’re out.