The warning comes ahead of England’s ‘freedom day’ on 19 July, which will see the remaining coronavirus measures removed in the final stage of the lockdown roadmap. Covid-19 cases and deaths are expected to rise significantly once restrictions are removed, despite the protection offered by the successful vaccination campaign, with more than 52 per cent of the UK population now fully vaccinated. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will set out their own plans for easing restrictions, but experts are urging caution as freedoms are restored. Listed are the 13 areas of the UK which have the highest Covid-19 rates right now, based on the seven days up to 7 July. Images are for illustrative purposes.
1. South Tyneside
South Tyneside’s Covid-19 case rate is 1,308 and the area had 1,975 new cases. Photo: OLI SCARFF
2. North East Lincolnshire
North East Lincolnshire’s Covid-19 case rate is 930 and the area had 1,484 new cases. Photo: Hollie Adams
3. Sunderland
Sunderland’s Covid-19 case rate is 878 and the area had 2,439 new cases. Photo: Finnbarr Webster
4. Gateshead
Gateshead’s Covid-19 case rate is 877 and the area had 1,771 new cases. Photo: DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS