Stamford Covid-19 rates rise again as South Kesteven cases up by more than 20 per cent

The county's public health chiefs have warned Covid-19 infection rates remain high in the county and urged anyone yet to be fully-vaccinated to get the jab.

Across South Kesteven, 1,739 cases were recorded in the seven-day period up to January 27, an increase of 21.4 per cent on the previous week’s figures.

A total of 316 people in Stamford tested positive during the seven-day period ending on January 27.

The figure is up by 18 cases on the previous week when Stamford had the highest infection rate in the district. Grantham recorded the highest number of fresh infections in the latest figures with 507.

The case rate per 100,000 people in the district is 1,214.2, and in Stamford, the average cases per 100,000 stands at 1,507.2.

So far, 319,596 vaccinations have been administered in South Kesteven, with 89.6 per cent of the district aged 12 or over having had their first dose, and 71.5 per cent are fully boostered.

Nationally, 64.9 per cent of people aged 12 and over are fully boostered and the Covid infection rate stands at 1,033.2 per 100,000 people.

Andy Fox, assistant director of public health in Lincolnshire, said: “Covid-19 rates remain high across Lincolnshire, especially among school-age children. This isn’t unusual and is being seen in other areas of the country.

“That’s why it’s important to get vaccinated – anyone who is eligible should take up the offer. And we should all continue to do those simple things that have served us so well.

“So remember hands, face, space and fresh air are still the best ways to stop the spread of Covid-19.”

Rebecca Neno, director of covid and influenza vaccination programmes, NHS Lincolnshire CCG, said: “While face coverings are no longer required by law, in line with government advice we would advise people to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with other people you do not normally meet.

“Also, we would strongly urge anyone who has not had their booster vaccination, or their first and/or second doses of the covid vaccination, to come forwards as soon as possible.

“Getting boosted is the best way to maximise your protection against covid, including against the Omicron variant, and you can make an appointment online via the national booking system or by calling 119.

“Alternatively, you can get your vaccination on a walk-in basis at one of our two mass vaccination centres at the Lincolnshire Showground or at PRSA, Boston, or by attending one of the pop-up sessions we are running throughout the county."

Visit www.lincolnshireccg.nhs.uk/grabajab for details.