Oxford edges towards a red alert as coronavirus cases double in a week

Date: 30 September 2020

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People in Oxford are being urged to follow preventative measures after the number of coronavirus cases doubled in the space of a week.

In the 7 days up to 25 September, there were 67 confirmed cases in Oxford, up from 33 in the previous week.

This means that the weekly rate for Oxford currently stands at 43.9 cases per 100,000 population, putting the city on an amber alert status, but edging closer to a red alert level. Cases per 100,000 are now at their highest rate since May.

The increase is predominantly among young people in the 18-24 age bracket. The rise is being seen across the city and is not focused on one particular area.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health said: “While this latest rise in cases mirrors what is happening nationally, Oxford has seen a doubling of cases in the space of a week, which is very concerning.

“We have recently seen many other parts of the country go into lockdown. This is something we all want to avoid. But if cases continue to rise at the rate they have been doing in Oxford, then we may have no choice but to impose tough local restrictions.

“My plea is a simple one – keep your distance, wash your hands, wear a mask, and ensure you are adhering to the rule of six.

“It’s up to all of us to bring the virus under control. The latest figures are a stark warning that we must act now. We need to slow the rate before it’s too late.”

You can find out more about how to keep yourself safe, and the latest number of cases in Oxfordshire, at www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/stopthespread.

  • Summary:

    People in Oxford are being urged to follow preventative measures after the number of coronavirus cases doubled in the space of a week.

  • Transformation:
  • Date:
    30 September 2020