RESIDENTS in Warrington are being asked to consider wearing face coverings in public again amid rising cases of coronavirus.

Health chiefs at Warrington Borough Council say the number of Covid-19 cases in the town is continuing to increase week on week, as are Warrington Hospital virus admissions.

Latest data shows that Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 now make up more than half of the Covid cases in the UK and are driving the increase in infections.

The Office for National Statistics estimates that locally, one in 25 people currently have Covid-19, which is an increase from one in 40 compared to the previous week.

At Warrington Hospital, 79 patients have Covid, with one of those patients in the intensive care unit.

To help reduce any transmission of the virus, the council says remember the basics of ‘hands, face and space’, as well as protecting yourself and others by getting vaccinated and boosted if you have not already.

Simple measures like covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, washing your hands thoroughly and regularly, letting fresh air into indoor spaces and cleaning your surroundings frequently can help limit the spread of Covid-19 and many other respiratory infections.

While rates are high, the council as asking residents to consider wearing a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces to provide additional protection.

If you have recently come back from a festival, event or holiday, be extra vigilant and make sure you regularly check with those around you that no one has developed any Covid-19 symptoms.

Warrington Guardian:

Thara Raj, the town’s director of public health, said: “The so-called ‘fifth wave’ of Covid-19 is impacting all parts of the country, and the number of Covid-19 infections in Warrington has gone up week by week.

“It is so important to remember that the virus is still circulating in our communities, and we need to know how we can keep on doing our bit to limit its transmission.

“While we are still learning to live with the virus, it is important to remember the steps that you can take when leaving your home more often and when meeting friends and family to ensure that Covid-19 does not ruin your summer plans.

“Taking a few extra steps to ensure you are not spreading the virus could mean the difference between helping to ensure everyone around you has a happy and healthy time, and I would encourage all residents to keep this in mind as you enjoy the summer months ahead.”

If you or anyone you have been in close contact with has developed any symptoms, even if they are only very mild, please err on the side of caution, as you might just be helping to protect a loved one or someone who is more vulnerable to coronavirus.

If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection such as Covid-19, and you have a high temperature, staying home if you can and avoiding contact with others can help reduce onward spread.

If you are planning on attending any big events for the remainder of the summer, be mindful that the virus is still spreading across the UK and try to meet outdoors if possible.