Increase in COVID cases among the under 35s

The Director of Public Health for Cheshire West Ian Ashworth is appealing to residents aged under 35 to be more COVID conscious as they go about their daily activities.

The borough is currently experiencing an increase in positive COVID-19 cases among this age group. Ian Ashworth is calling on everyone aged under 35 to play their part to protect the elderly and the whole community by social distancing, covering faces and washing hands.

The Government has also introduced new regulations banning people from meeting in groups greater than six.

Ian Ashworth said: “It is six months since lockdown began in March and it has been a long and difficult period for all of us.

“The lockdown has affected many lives in countless ways and it is understandable that many of us were keen to get back to some form of normality when restrictions were lifted in July.

“People wanted to see loved ones again and business owners and workers wanted to return to work and support the local economy.

“However, the virus has not gone away and we have not yet got a vaccine. We are starting to see an increase in the number of positive cases in under 35s in west Cheshire. This is also the case in our neighbouring boroughs.

“We need everyone’s help to stop the spread and keep our case numbers low. The only way to do this is for everyone to play their part and be more COVID conscious in our daily lives. Social distance by two metres where possible, cover your faces when indoors and travelling on public transport, and wash your hands regularly or use a hand sanitiser.

“Anyone who is symptomatic should stay home and arrange to get tested by calling 119 or visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus

“It is really important that we are not complacent, or it may result in restrictions being imposed here similar to other parts of the country, where hospitality venues have been forced to close and stricter restrictions have been re-imposed. If we want to keep our pubs and restaurants open, we must all play our part.”

For the latest Coronavirus (COVID-19) local updates please visit www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

Pictured - The Director of Public Health for Cheshire West Ian Ashworth