Public Health Dorset report that cases rise again over the past week across Dorset. Rates in both Dorset Council and BCP Council are higher than the average for the South West region, and are significantly higher than England’s average case rate. The number of people in hospital with COVID-19 across Dorset has also continued to rise.
Cases remain highest amongst school-aged children, which is why we’ve recommended additional measures for schools, but we are also seeing high rates among all ages. With the amount of cases we are seeing locally, it’s important to recognise that there is an increased risk from COVID-19 at the moment.
The new advice on lateral flow tests is to take one before periods of higher risk. That might be going to an event, gathering or visiting someone who is more vulnerable to COVID-19. As we all start to socialise more during the festive period, it’s also sensible to take a test before meeting family and friends.
Wearing a mask indoors or in crowded spaces and ensuring you have plenty of fresh air – either by meeting outdoors or keeping doors and windows open when indoors – remain key to preventing the spread of the virus.
We continue to encourage anyone eligible to take up the offer of the COVID-19 vaccine, including the booster, as this is the best way to protect yourself from serious illness caused by the virus.
More information from Public Health Dorset
Changes to lateral flow testing
There has been a change to when you should take your lateral flow test. In England, you should take a rapid lateral flow test:
- if you will be in a high risk situation that day
- before you visit people who are at higher risk of severe illness if they get COVID
You are at higher risk of catching or passing on COVID when:
- in crowded and enclosed spaces
- there is limited fresh air
More information about rapid lateral flow tests.
