Warning as number of coronavirus cases in Wolverhampton on the rise

The latest figures for Wolverhampton show an average of 16.03 cases per 100,000 people in the area over seven days up to August 17.

This average was up from 14.04 cases per 100,000 people the week before and Wolverhampton Council director of public health John Denley said the increase should act as a warning about the virus.

He said: "The increase in cases in Wolverhampton should act as warning to us all that Covid-19 remains prevalent in the city and can quickly and easily spread from one person to another.

"Clearly, as more of the country opens up and we are able to do more of the things we used to do, the risk of transmission increases.

"What is particularly noticeable is how easy it is for the virus to spread from household to household, which is the primary cause of the increase in cases in Wolverhampton.

“That's why it's really important that we all continue to follow the social distancing guidance when we meet up with people who are not members of our own household or bubble.

"We should also ensure we wear face coverings in enclosed spaces and we regularly wash our hands for at least 20 seconds.

"In particular, people need to stay home if they or any of their household has symptoms of Covid-19, and book a test as soon as possible.

"By doing all this, you will be protecting yourself, your family and the wider community and helping us avoid a local lockdown."

For more information around Wolverhampton Council's response to coronavirus, go to wolverhampton.gov.uk/coronavirus