Spike in Hartlepool coronavirus cases linked to returning holidaymakers and entertainment venues

Hartlepool was listed as an area of concern on the Government coronavirus watchlist after figures on Friday showed 51 Covid-19 cases in the last seven days, up from 22 cases the previous week.

Craig Blundred, acting director of public health for Hartlepool Borough Council, said improved data they have received shows the rise can be linked to issues around some entertainment venues and those returning from holidays.

Speaking at the Covid-19 outbreak control engagement working group meeting on Friday, he also noted the rise has seen an increase in the number of 18-35 year olds testing positive for Covid-19, but stressed young people cannot be blamed.

He said: “It is in line with other parts of the North East and the rest of the country that the cases are occurring more often in younger people.

“Some investigative work we’ve done, the clusters we have seen in Hartlepool have been linked to returning holidaymakers potentially, but also we’re seeing elements linked to, when we look at contact lists, entertainment type venues and that sort of thing.

“It suggests there is mixing going on, social distancing probably is not being adhered to, and that really does underline the importance of making sure the messages we put out are clear and consistent and people abide by them as well.”

Cllr Brenda Harrison had also raised concerns over the spread of Covid-19 in certain venues and noted the council faces ‘huge challenges’.

She said: “In my view it is to do with some of the venues that are open to younger people for quite a long time, I’m talking about 2,3,4 o’clock in the morning type venues.

“There is, in certain venues, no attempt at social distancing and I do think that needs addressing and I think we need to be quite firm about that.”

A number of steps have already been taken to curb the spread of the virus, including council staff and police stepping up spot checks at pubs, nightclubs and restaurants to ensure Covid-19 safety rules are being followed

From Monday September 14, it is illegal to meet with more than six people indoors or outdoors, unless you’re part of the same household or ‘bubble’.

Council chiefs are also urging residents to wash their hands frequently, wear a face covering where it is required, and to maintain distancing, two metres if possible, from those not in their ‘bubble’

Additionally, the council has gained extra coronavirus testing in Hartlepool this week.

Tests will be available at the Department of Health and Social Care’s mobile testing unit at the Hartlepool Waterfront site from Monday 14 September right through to Friday 18 September and also on Sunday 20 September.

Residents must book a test in advance and advice is if anyone has coronavirus symptoms to book a test straight away.

Tests can be booked by going online at www.gov.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.

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