South Tyneside escalated on Government watchlist as COVID-19 cases continue to rise

Last week it was classed as an ‘area of concern’ but its status has been escalated after the latest weekly infection rate rose to 60.9 cases per 100,000 people after 92 new cases were confirmed in the seven days to September 8.

And if the number of cases continues to increase then the borough could yet see additional measures imposed, similar to those seen in the North West and Leicestershire, with health bosses warnin g ‘more draconian restrictions’ could follow unless the spread of the virus can be slowed in South Tyneside.

Neighbouring local authorities Gateshead, Sunderland and Newcastle have also been listed as ‘areas of enhanced support’ which means they will benefit from additional testing and analysis, as well as closer monitoring from central government.

Director of Public Health, Tom Hall , : “This really is the last opportunity we have to pull together and slow the spread of the virus.

"If we cannot turn this around then it is likely to lead to more draconian restrictions on our everyday lives and losing the freedoms we have only fairly recently started to enjoy again.”

The leader of South Tyneside Council, Cllr Iain Malcolm, said: “Let me make it absolutely clear that we are at a tipping point in South Tyneside.

"This really is a case of life and death. If we do not come together and make a collective effort to control the virus then people who are the most vulnerable to the virus may die. I urge each and every one of you to do your bit to control this virus and protect our communities.”

In a statement, South Tyneside Council said: “The council and its partners have already taken a number of steps to try and curb the spread of the virus.

"These include advising care homes to temporarily suspend visits to residents to protect the most vulnerable while visits to all adult inpatient wards at South Tyneside Hospital have also been suspended.

"Enhanced contact tracing is being carried out to identify any connections between cases and hot spot areas within the borough. The police and council staff have also stepped up spot checks at pubs and restaurants and will take action against anyone in breach of the guidance.”

"Everyone is encouraged to follow the guidance around thorough and regular handwashing and social distancing. People should wear a face covering when expected to do so unless they are exempt.

"People who were previously asked to “shield” are being advised to be extra vigilant and limit their contact with people outside of their home. Under new rules, people can only meet socially in groups of no more than six people.

"Anyone failing to comply will be breaking the law and risks a fine. It is also important that people follow the advice from NHS Test and Trace if they are notified as a close contact of someone confirmed as having the virus and self-isolate for 14 days. People should only get a test if they are displaying symptoms of COVID -19.”