A member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) has said he is “cautiously optimistic” that restrictions may not have to be put back in place heading into winter to bring cases under control.
It is feared that the recent lifting of all remaining lockdown measures in England could fuel another wave of coronavirus cases, with infections expected to rise again in September when school and university terms begin, and more workers are set to return to offices.
However, Professor John Edmunds said that while the need to be “very cautious” still remains to prevent another peak, the coronavirus vaccines have “dramatically changed the relationship between cases and hospitalisation”.
Despite the successful vaccination rollout, coronavirus cases are still high across much of the UK, with these 13 areas recording the highest rates right now. Figures are based on the latest rates per 100,000 population in the week to 3 August. Images are for illustrative purposes.
1. City of Kingston upon Hull
Covid-19 case rate per 100,000 population: 553.8. Total number of cases: 1,435 Photo: ADRIAN DENNIS
2. Belfast
Covid-19 case rate per 100,000 population: 522.3. Total number of cases: 1,789 Photo: ADRIAN DENNIS
3. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Covid-19 case rate per 100,000 population: 517.6. Total number of cases: 2,055 Photo: Dan Kitwood
4. Derry City and Strabane
Covid-19 case rate per 100,000 population: 495. Total number of cases: 748 Photo: Christopher Furlong