SOLIHULL has seen 742 new cases of Covid and over the last month with a similar number of new cases each week, says the borough’s director of public health Ruth Tennant.
The borough currently has 366 cases per 100,000 of population for the weeek ending September 5, an increase of 87 on the previous week.
Ms Tennant said: “Scotland, where schools have been back for several weeks and lots of people have returned to workplaces, has seen a big increase in rates – showing just how important it is that we don’t assume Covid is over.
“We still continue to see people being hospitalised and seriously ill with the virus.”
As the vaccine programme has continued to roll out, large numbers of people have come forward for vaccination – 153,695 people aged 16 and over have had their first dose and 142,838 both doses.
This means that in Solihull 84 per cent of people have had their first dose and 78 per cent their second.
“To reduce the risk of Covid rates going up over the autumn it is vital that everyone gets both doses,” said Ms Tennant.
“If you live in Chelmsley Wood, Kingshurst and Fordbridge or Smith’s Wood and haven’t been vaccinated, do get a jab when you can.
“Vaccine rates – although high – are lower in these areas, particularly in 19 to 39-year-olds.”
So far nearly 3,000 16 to 17-year-olds have been vaccinated before the start of term and if people haven’t been vaccinated yet they can arrange to get their jab at a GP-led local vaccination sites or via the NHS England online walk-in site finder.
Local mobile clinics are continuing to run in Solihull including at Mell Square and Chelmsley Wood.
People can also book vaccine appointments online through the National Booking Service or by calling 119.
“If you are pregnant – or know someone who is – it’s very important to get vaccinated,” said Ms Tennant.
“There have been cases of severe illness in pregnant women catching Covid-19, including hospitalisation and premature births.
“Our local midwives will support any woman to make a decision about vaccination so do ask if you have any questions.”
The Birmingham & Solihull NHS Covid-19 Vaccination Service can be contacted at: birminghamandsolihullcovidvaccine.nhs.uk.
