Next steps for living safely with COVID-19

In the 7 days up to 27 March (based on data published on 1 April) we had 2537 confirmed new cases of COVID-19 in Brighton & Hove.

This is:

• down 8.9% on previous 7 days
• equivalent to a weekly rate of 869.6 per 100,000 residents
• lower than the South East which was 998 per 100,000
• higher than the rate for England, which was 860.6 per 100,000 

Alistair Hill, Director of Public Health at Brighton & Hove City Council said:

“As we take the next steps towards living with COVID-19 I want to acknowledge the impact that the pandemic has had on all our lives.

“I want to recognise everyone who has worked tirelessly to keep people safe over the last two years. I also want to thank everyone who has got their vaccines, tested, followed the government advice and changed the way they live or work.

“It’s important to remember now that this isn’t the end of COVID-19.

“Although we’ve seen high rates of positive cases in recent weeks the success of vaccinations and antiviral treatments, alongside a greater understanding of the virus means we have stronger protection against COVID-19.

“Vaccines remain our best defence against the virus. By getting all the vaccinations you are eligible for you can boost your own protection and in turn help reduce the chances of spreading it to friends, family and those that are more vulnerable.

“As we move forward, testing provision will be focused on those at higher risk. Free testing will continue to be available to specific groups including people at the highest risk of serious illness and some NHS and care staff.

“While the restrictions are now removed and most testing reduced, it’s still in our hands to make sensible decisions to protect not just ourselves but to think of others and protect those around us too, particularly those who are most at risk.”

Protect yourself and others

Please play your part to reduce the risk of infection and help us live safely with COVID-19:

• Ensure you’re fully vaccinated so you have the best possible protection against COVID-19.
• Let fresh air in if meeting indoors or meet outside.
• Continue to consider wearing a face covering in crowded or enclosed spaces while infection rates are high.
• Don’t forget the basics of good hygiene like covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing as well as regular hand washing.
• If you can, stay at home if you're unwell to reduce the risk of passing any illnesses to others.
• Take care to avoid others as much as possible if you have symptoms or confirmed COVID-19.