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The media are reporting that Fulford school is closing because of a very high level of COVID infections and contacts.
There are 107 cases among York school pupils
York hospital and primary care is under “immense pressure,” says public health director Sharon Stoltz at a York Council meeting this evening. She says healthcare staff are demoralised and worried about another wave. “Many are off work with COVID, self-isolating, caring for children who are self isolating or off sick with mental health problems”
Change to government policy for relaxations on 19th July
The guidance for vulnerable people has been updated (click link)
The government is changing its stance on the removal of restrictions on 19th July.
- After July 19 businesses and large events will be “supported and encouraged to use certification in high risk settings to help limit the spread of infections in their venues”. Certification will involve asking attendees to prove their vaccination status by showing the NHS app; showing a NHS text or email proving they have had a recent negative lateral flow test in the past 48 hours; or showing a positive PCR test within the last six months suggesting they will have immunity from the virus.
- New guidance will also be issued for people who are clinically vulnerable, which will encourage them to meet others outside and to check the vaccination status of their social contacts.
- the Government will “recommend” that people in England continue to wear face coverings in crowded areas, such as on public transport. It is understood the guidance will apply to indoor settings that are less likely to be ventilated and where people are likely to come across others with whom they do not normally mix.
- Under updated guidance, the instruction to “work from home” will be lifted on July 19, but businesses will be told to avoid allowing all staff to return at once, “We expect and recommend a gradual return to the workplace over the summer.”
Hospital patient numbers and deaths
Hospital patients numbers edging up. Now two in intensive care.
Test results
130 new positive test results today. Brings cumulative total up to 15,126
The number of cases in the City has risen from 854 to 876
The rate /100k population has increased to 415.94.
The infection rate has leveled off but is not yet showing any signs of a sustained fall
The infection rate in York has now fallen below the regional average. It remains above the national average
Neighbourhoods
The Heslington/University neighbourhood is no longer in the above 400 infection rate banding.
11 neighbourhoods now have very high infection levels
Vaccinations
606 vaccinations were completed yesterday (Sunday)
A significant milestone was passed, with more than 60% of York residents now having received both their first and second doses.
Tests
- 8238 PCR tests were completed during the week ending 7th July 2021.
- Of these, 10.6% were positive. That is more tha the 10.4% found during the previous period.
- 3335 “lateral flow” tests were also conducted on 11th July 2021