Coronavirus Rates Rise Slightly in Wandsworth

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Official figures show rise 23 cases per 100,000 people in borough

New data from Public Health England shows the rate of coronavirus in Wandsworth has continued to rise slightly. The rate of cases per 100,000 people was 381 on August 8 but had increased to 404 by August 21 – an increase of 23 cases per 100,000 people.

Data from the government’s dashboard shows as of Sunday August 23, 1,333 people living in the borough have tested positive for the virus since March.

Since Sunday, August 16, 38 people have tested positive for the virus in the borough.

On August 21, 11 people tested positive for the virus.

It follows a similar pattern across London, where rates are beginning to increase slightly as lockdown measures ease and testing ramps up.

Last week in Richmond, the rate jumped from just 5.6 cases per 100,000 to 19.3.

In neighbouring Kingston cases also increased to 13.7 per 100,000 from 8.0 the week before.

Both Richmond and Kingston councils released videos earlier this week, reminding residents to maintain social distancing, wash their hands regularly and wear masks when on public transport and inside shops.

Although no clusters have yet been identified, and the number of cases still remains low, public health experts want to ensure it stays that way.

In London, 6,167 people have died of the virus since the beginning of the pandemic.

Commenting on the latest figures, Professor Paul Plant, London deputy regional director for Public Health England said: “The overall weekly rate of Covid-19 in London is on a par with the national average for England and coronavirus cases in boroughs currently remain low compared to other parts of the country.

“Although some boroughs have more cases than others, reassuringly our epidemiological analysis does not suggest the need for further lockdown-like measures anywhere in London at present. These should be viewed as a last resort and Londoners must keep playing their part to keep coronavirus at bay.

“With the summer holidays in full swing and many people taking trips abroad, continue following government advice on social distancing, self-isolation, wearing face coverings and practising good hand hygiene both whilst you are away and when you return to London. All of these actions will help keep London and your local community safe and healthy."

Sian Bayley - Local Democracy Reporter

August 26, 2020