Coronavirus rates in Cornwall at highest level since summer peak and still rising
Cornwall Council has already said the recent surge in cases is likely being driven by the Omicron variant
Cornwall's public health team has repeated calls to stick to 'Plan B' restrictions, warning that our case rates are higher than the peak in August and still rising.
The Duchy recorded 3,373 in the seven days to Saturday 4th December and Cornwall Council has said the recent surge in cases is likely to be driven by the Omicron variant.
On Monday (13th December), Boris Johnson confirmed at least one person with the strain is known to have died.
It came just 24 hours after the Prime Minister announced a major upscale of the boosters programme, saying every adult would be offered a third jab by the end of the month.
The work from home advice has also come into force under the 'Plan B' restrictions, ahead of Covid passes being introduced on Wednesday 15th December.
Rachel Wigglesworth, Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: "We know that new restrictions are the last thing that people want, especially at this time of year as we all prepare to celebrate Christmas. But we can’t underestimate the impact this new variant could have on our communities if we don’t take it seriously.
"This is why we welcome the new Plan B rules and are urging people to follow them to protect themselves and those around them.
"It is vital that everyone is aware of the risk and takes responsibility to slow the spread of Omicron in Cornwall".
Councillor Dr Andy Virr, Portfolio Holder for Adults and Public Health and Emergency Department consultant at the Royal Cornwall Hospital, added: "The best weapon we have against rising Covid cases and the Omicron variant is the vaccine so I would urge everyone to make sure they get both jabs and their booster when available.
"The vaccines are proven to reduce severity of illness from the virus and keep people out of hospital so by having it you can not only help protect yourself but also reduce pressure on the NHS this winter.
"The majority of people who end up in hospital with Covid are unvaccinated and I have seen first-hand the impact the virus can have on people’s health. Our message is clear – don’t hang about, get your jabs".