PUBLIC health leaders in Warrington are keeping a close eye on the coronavirus situation in a neighbouring borough.

At present, Trafford has the highest Covid infection rate in the UK compared with all other local authority areas, latest official data shows.

During the week up to October 10, which is the most recent period for which figures are available, 1,942 cases were recorded in Trafford through lab-reported and rapid lateral flow testing.

This demonstrates an infection rate of 817.4 cases among every 100,000 residents.

Comparatively, the same period saw 1,147 cases detected in Warrington at a rate of 547.8 – the 60th highest in the country.

On the high virus presence in Trafford, a Warrington Borough Council spokesman said: “We are aware that some neighbouring areas are currently experiencing very high rates, and we are continuing to monitor Covid-19 rates daily.

“The best way Warrington residents can protect themselves and others from Covid, and more specifically from severe disease from Covid, is to get fully vaccinated.

“If you have not yet been vaccinated, it is not too late to book your vaccination.

“There are things you can do to help reduce the risk of you and anyone you live with getting ill with Covid-19 or other winter bugs including seasonal flu.

“These effective prevention measures have been used throughout the pandemic, and they include washing your hands with soap and water regularly or sanitising your hands if you are out and about, wearing a face covering, keeping a distance where possible and meeting outdoors.”

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The council is also urging residents to ensure that when indoors, you make sure there is a lot of fresh air circulating to help reduce risk of transmission.

All residents should also get symptom-free tests twice a week, even if you are well, as this is a good way of protecting those around you by identifying those cases who do not have symptoms and who may therefore be spreading the virus unknowingly.

Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 – such as a new, continuous cough, high temperature and/or loss of taste or smell – should self-isolate immediately and take a free NHS PCR test as soon as possible.  

The spokesman added: “If you are planning on travelling outside of England, check on requirements and any restrictions in place, as these do change.”