THE number of Omicron cases in Shropshire has increased.
As part of its weekly update of cases, Shropshire Council has confirmed there are now five cases of the Omicron variant recorded in the county, up from the two previously confirmed.
Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council’s director of public health, said there are also a number of suspected cases.
She said: "This week we have seen the number of cases in Shropshire remain stable, with our overall rate now similar to other rural areas in the region, as other areas within the region start to rise.
“While latest data suggests cases have remained stable, as at 12pm on Monday, December 13 we now have five confirmed cases of Omicron in Shropshire, with a number of suspected cases. This increase is in line with national cases and expected to continue to rise.
“We also currently have 35 ongoing outbreaks, with a further 21 declared since last week, the majority are in workplace settings and schools.
“With this in mind, I can’t stress enough how important it is now for everyone who is eligible, to get their Covid-19 boosters and 1st and 2nd dose Covid-19 vaccinations if you haven’t done so already.
"Even if you are fully vaccinated, you could still catch the virus, so please do continue to remain safe and follow the guidelines, including wearing a face covering in indoor public places and on public transport, washing your hands regularly, and meet outside rather than indoors.”
The overall figures for the first full week of December had revealed the number of Covid-19 cases had dropped in Shropshire.
During the seven-day period between December 3 and 9 there were 1,662 new COVID-19 cases reported, a decrease of two per cent on the previous week.
The seven-day infection rate for Shropshire was 510.7 per 100,000, which is still above the 445.1 per 100,000 for the West Midlands, but below the 512.6 for England.
Meanwhile, 27 hospital beds were occupied by Covid-19 patients and there were eight Covid-19 related deaths in a local hospital.
Testing rates continue to be high across the county. The average age of cases has stabilised at 30.6 years.
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