Coronavirus York updates; 29th January 2021

Deaths

THREE additional hospital deaths have been announced. One occurred on Tuesday and two on Wednesday.

Test results

SEVENTY TWO additional positive test results announced today. That brings the cumulative total number of cases in the City to 10,991

It seems that the rate of decline in infection levels may now be slowing. This feature was also seen in the middle of November when the post second wave decline in numbers markedly slowed.

Three weeks later it bottomed out at, a seven day average of, 17.4 (57.93 rate /100k population figure).

The infection rate now stands at 256.40 – down from the 269.22 seen yesterday

The rate in York is below the national average and on current trends will go below the regional average early next week. The number of cases in North Yorkshire is falling at a similar rate to York

Neighbourhoods

Five neighbourhoods with a case rate lower than 200.

Dunnington is now falling quickly towards the 100 case benchmark.

Vaccinations

National
Regional
York

According to one York GP practice, they are updating the local vaccination figures on their web site and social media channels. That would be a step in the right direction as communications on the progress being made each day, on vaccinating the four priority groups, is difficult to find.

& from Nimbuscare

Transmission Stats

Council commentary updates

The York Council has updated the following commentary on the pandemic on the open data web site. (NB. Sadly the Council is still referring to MSOA neighbourhoods as “wards”. The boundaries of the MSOAs are very different from ward boundaries).

People with Covid Symptoms

• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 25.1.21 there had been 225 total covid triages in the CYC area in the last 7 days. The peak number of triages was 653 in the 7 day period to 20.9.20.

• As at 27.1.21, the Covid Symptom App estimates 545.7 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,789 people). The peak rate was 1,282.6 on 7.1.21.

Diagnosed cases

• As at 28.1.21 York has had 10,919 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 5,184.3 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is below the national (5,817.3 and regional (5,752) averages.

• The PHE ‘Exceedance’ rating compares the no. of new cases over a 14 day period with the previous 6 weeks and provides a RAG rating to indicate if the previously observed trend in the no. of new cases is worsening. The latest rating for York (25.1.21) is Green.

• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 20.1.21 to 26.1.21 in York is 208.9 (using data published on Gov.uk on 28.1.21).

• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 17.1.21 to 23.1.21 was 269.2. The national and regional averages at this date were 373.2 and 242.3 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 28.1.21).

• York is currently ranked 35th out of 149 Upper Tier Local Authorities (UTLAs) with a rank of 1 indicating the lowest 7 day rate.

• For the 7 day period 16.1.21.to 22.1.21, 9 wards in York (Acomb, Westfield, Rawcliffe & Clifton Without, Strensall, Haxby & Wiggington, Clifton, Osbaldwick & Derwent, Heworth and Guildhall) have seen a statistically significant fall in rates compared with the 7 day period 9.1.21 to 15.1.21. For the remaining wards there has been no statistically significant change in rates. No wards have seen a significant increase in rates.

• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 17.1.21 to 23.1.21 for people aged 60+ in York was 232. The national and regional averages were 294.5 and 190.4 respectively.

• As at 25.1.21, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 PCR tests only) was 9.61%. The national and regional averages are 11.9% and 9.1% respectively.

• As at 25.1.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 Lateral Flow Tests only) was 0.54%. The national and regional averages are 0.7% and 0.4% respectively.

• As at 25.1.21, the latest 14 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 1 and 2 PCR tests combined) was 11.3%. The national and regional averages were 13.2% and 9.8% respectively. The breakdown for York over the last 14 days is a 9.5% positivity rate for Pillar 1 tests and a 11.8% positivity rate for Pillar 2 PCR tests. Source PHE

• As at 28.1.21 York University reported 29 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test. The peak number was 331 on the 19.10.20.

• As at 25.1.21 York St. John reported 4 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test. The peak number was 82 on the 8.10.20.

Contact Tracing

• Since 28.5.20 a total of 9,953 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 8,940 of the cases have been completed (89.8%). 23,683 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 17,540 of these have been completed (74.1%). Source: PHE Report.

• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 22.1.21, 804 ‘actionable’ positive COVID-19 CYC cases have been referred to the local contact tracing service. 775 of the referrals (96.4%) have been actioned and 29 are still ‘in progress. Of the referrals actioned, 519 (67%) were successful and 256 (33%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.

Cases in Residential Settings / Schools

• As at 27.1.21 there were 13 care homes in the CYC area with confirmed Covid-19 infection (at least 1 case of either a staff member or resident).

• The latest ‘outbreak’ (2+ cases) in a residential care setting in York was reported by PHE on 28.1.21 (1 home).

• In the 7 days up to 24.1.21 there were 30 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive (across 19 different schools). NB Currently the majority of York children are not in the school setting.

COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital

• As at 26.1.21 there were 156 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The previous figure on 25.1.21 was 148

• As at 26.1.21 there were 7 confirmed Covid-19 patients and 0 suspected Covid-19 patient in the Intensive Treatment Unit. The previous figures on 25.1.21 were 8 and 0 respectively.

• As at 26.1.21 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 4 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours.

• As at 26.1.21 there had been 10 confirmed patients discharged with COVID-19 in last 24 hours

Covid Patients (CYC Residents) discharged from York Hospital

• Between 18.1.21 and 24.1.21, 56 CYC residents were discharged from York hospital after needing NHS care for symptoms linked to covid-19 infection.

R Number

• The ‘R’ value (the number of people that one infected person will pass on a virus to, on average) for the North East and Yorkshire area on 22.1.21 was estimated to be in the range 0.8 to 1.1. The previous estimate was (1.1 to 1.3) on 15.1.21.

Vaccinations

• As at 26.1.21 26,294 CYC residents have received the first dose and 1,017 had received both doses. 10,281 people over 80 have received the first dose. This represents 90.7% of the estimated number of people aged over 80 in York (11,334 people). 708 people aged 65+ who live in care homes have received the first dose.

• In England between 8.12.20 and 27.1.20, 6,918,853 vaccinations had been administered (6,473,752 first dose and 445,101 second dose).

Deaths

The two sources about deaths from Covid-19 at LA level are ONS data and local registrar data. They are derived from the same source (civil registration data). ONS data is more comprehensive as it includes deaths of York residents which have occurred and been registered outside York. Local registrar data is useful as it enables a breakdown by age and gender. The most recently available data is summarised below:

• ONS weekly data: In the most recent week (9.1.20 to 15.1.20) 25 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (18 in hospital, 1 at home and 6 in a care home).

• ONS Cumulative data: Since the start of the pandemic, for deaths occurring up to 15th January 2020 and registered up to 23rd January 2021, 263 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (146 in hospital, 97 in care homes, 14 at home and 6 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 124.9 which is lower than the national average of 157.6.

• Local Registrar data (Cumulative): Since the start of the pandemic (using data for deaths occurring up to 20.1.21), a cumulative total of 273 deaths of CYC residents where COVID-19 was mentioned (confirmed or suspected) on the death certificate, have been registered. The average age of the people who died was 82.6, with an age range of 44-104. The age profile of those dying in York is older than the national average. 133 of the 273 were male (48.7%), less than the national average (54.9%). 95 people (34.8%) died in nursing /care homes; (the national average is 24%). In addition 22 people (8.06%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.

Coronavirus York updates; 28th January 2021

Deaths

An additional seven deaths have been announced by the York Hospital Trust today. Three occurred yesterday and four on Tuesday.

It means that 68 people have lost their lives to COVID-19 at the York and Scarborough hospitals over the last two weeks.

Test results

SIXTY THREE (63) additional positive test results were announced today. Brings the cumulative case total in the City to 10,918

The case rate /100k population has reduced to 269.22

Infection rates are continuing to fall at all levels across the country.

Neighbourhoods

Only three neighbourhoods now have very high infection rates (Haxby, New Earswick and Westfield).

Woodthorpe/Acomb Park has dropped below the 400 case rate benchmark for the first time since 22nd December 2020.

Four areas are now below the 200 case rate benchmark (Dunnington, the City centre, Huntington and Poppleton/Rufforth/Askhams).

It is likely that one of those neighbourhoods will become the first to fall below 100, and be marked as “green” (below average), since 28th December when Heslington recorded a 93.8 case rate.

Huntington has fallen from having 45 cases to just 10 during the last eleven days

Vaccinations

Nationally 282,812 people received a first dose of vaccine yesterday. That brought the cumulative total to 7,447,199.

2,142 people received the second dose bringing the cumulative total to 476,298

Vaccination numbers have been lower this week

Hospitals

According to government figures, there were 215 COVID-19 patients being cared for by the York Hospital Trust on Tuesday 26th January

The were 11 patients in intensive care

Fixed Penalty Notices for COVID offences

The Police have issued 19 fixed penalty notices in York over the last week to people who have been found breaking COVID restrictions.

Most were for unlawful indoor gatherings.

The breakdown across the county is;

North Yorkshire Police say that they have issued a further 87 FPNs for breaches of the Coronavirus regulations since the 19 January 2021.

This takes the total number of FPNs issued since the third national lockdown began on 6 January 2021 to 328 . NYP have issued 2216 COVID notices  in total since March 2020.

Virus in the community

Coronavirus York updates; 27th January 2021

Deaths

Four more deaths announced by York Hospital Trust. Three occurred on Monday and one yesterday

Test results

SEVENTY SEVEN additional positive test results were announced today. This is higher than has been seen in recent days, but is in line with the post weekend correction that we see during most weeks.

It is possible though that the rate of reduction in case numbers may now slow and may more closely follow the pattern seen as wave two declined in November (see graph below).

The trend downward in case numbers should be sustained at least while lockdown restrictions are in place.

The government have indicated today that they do not expect to see schools reopening to all pupils before March.

The rate /100k population figure is now 286.31. This is the lowest figure seen in the City since 26th December 2020.

Cases figures in York
Trends

Infection rates in York have been falling more quickly than in other parts of the country. There is an expectation that the rate will fall below the regional average before next week.

It is already below the national average.

Neighbourhoods

Three neighbourhoods are now below the 200 case threshold.

Infection rate trend is now generally downwards in every neighbourhood

Hospitals

York Hospital Trust has reached a new peak in Covid patients .

242 Covid inpatients were being treated by the hospital trust on Tuesday.

That’s 111 more patients than the peak of 131 seen in May 2020

The Trust also said it had 10 patients in intensive care, compared with 11 on Monday.

It had discharged a total of 1,604 Covid patients to their usual place of residence, or who were no longer being treated as Covid-19, up from 1,589 a day earlier.

Vaccinations

Nationally yesterday 311,060 received their first dose of vaccine. Brings cumulative total to 7,164,387.

1710 received their second dose bringing the second dose total to 47,415

Latest published vaccination figures for the Askham Bar sites

  • Saturday – 2258
  • Sunday – 1620
  • Monday – 1300+

Yesterday the York Hospital Trust delivered its 14,000th vaccine – the trust is vaccinating frontline healthcare staff and social care workers across York and Scarborough

There have been 107,752 vaccinations in North Yorkshire and York since the programme started in December. Including hospital doses, that is a grand total of 126,163 #coronavirus vaccine doses given.

Vaccination appointment process

We appreciate there are some people who are struggling to arrange transport to the Vaccination Centre for their appointment. The following may be of help:

  • York Wheels offer transport for a small charge – 01904 630080
  • The Home from Hospital service based at York Hospital offer transport to vaccination appointments and volunteers can also help with online booking – call 01904 726191 open 7 days a week 8am til 7pm
  • The Ambulance Wish Foundaiton in York is offering free transport for anyone in a wheelchair to the site in their wheelchair friendly vehicles – (01904) 530053

Contact tracing

Image may contain: 1 person, hat, text that says "NHS You have the potential to save a life Register to donate blood plasma today Be the difference"
click to access details

Coronavirus York updates; 26th January 2021

Deaths

SEVEN additional deaths’ announced by the York Hospital Trust. Two occurred on Sunday and five yesterday. The cumulative death toll, at the York and Scarborough hospitals, recorded since 1st September, has now reached 255.

The latest ONS figures, indicating the number of COVID fatalities among York residents, have been published. They cover the week ending 15th January 2021.

They paint a grim picture with 18 residents losing their lives in hospital and a further 6 in care homes. One fatality occurred at home bringing the weekly total to 25.

That is the second highest weekly toll since the start of the pandemic. (29 lost their lives during the week commencing 1st May 2020).

The figures differ from those published by the York Hospital Trust which covers a larger area than the City.

Test results

FORTY ONE additional positive test results announced today. That is the lowest single day figure recorded since December. Brings the cumulative total number of cases to 10,779

The rate /100k population has now fallen to 305.78. The trend suggests that case numbers could be below 200 by the weekend.

The 7 day rolling average number of cases is now below 100. At 92.0 it is the lowest figure seen since 27th December 2020.

While case numbers in York and North Yorkshire continue to reduce steadily, progress is slower across England as a whole. The Yorkshire regional figures seem to have stabilised

Neighbourhoods

Testing numbers

There has been some speculation that the recent fall in positive test results can partly be explained by lower testing numbers. Essentially commentators suggested that poor weather had deterred many from getting a test.

That doesn’t appear to be the case in York where overall test numbers remain stable.

They are significantly higher than was seen at the peak of the second wave. That occurred on 16th October when a positivity rate of 15.8% was recorded (6180 PCR tests were undertaken during that week)

The third wave high occurred on 3rd January 2021 when 6843 PCR tests produced a 18.2 % positivity rate

The latest figures (20th January) saw 6399 PCR tests completed with a positivity rate of 12.2%.

In addition, an average of 934 “lateral flow” tests are being completed EACH DAY in the City.

The Council is asking residents to book a test if they are “symptom free”

The main defect with the system in York at present, is a lack of feedback on the numbers of positive results that have been recorded at the individual testing sites.

Such information might support – or otherwise – the claim being made at a national level that many of those being given positive test results, subsequently fail to follow isolation procedures.

Hospitals

There are currently 223 confirmed and suspected Covid-19 inpatients being cared for by the York Hospital Trust. That compares with 222 last Friday.

It also had 11 patients in intensive care, compared with 13 on Friday.

More than 50 Covid patients were discharged from York and Scarborough hospitals over the weekend

York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said yesterday it had discharged a total of 1,589 Covid-19 patients to their usual place of residence or who were no longer being treated as having the illness, compared with 1,536 last Friday.

Vaccinations

278,757 first doses, together with 1968 second doses, were administered yesterday. In total across the UK, 6,853,327 people have now had their first dose and 472,446 their second dose.

Coronavirus York updates; 25th January 2021

Deaths

FIVE additional deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust. Three occurred on Saturday and two yesterday. The cumulative number of fatalities at the York and Scarborough hospitals since 1st September is now 248.

Test results

SIXTY SIX additional positive test results were announced today, bringing the cumulative total to 10,738.

The rate /100k population has now fallen to 331.42.

If the current trend continues then the rate should fall below 250 before the end of the week.

The 7 day rolling case rate (99.7) has fallen below 100 for the first time since 28th December 2020.

Infection rates in York continue to reduce more quickly than is being seen at regional or national level

Neighbourhoods

The number of cases has reduced by 49 compared to yesterdays report.

Westfield now has the highest number of cases. Although it has show a reduction on each of the last 13 consecutive days the trend down has been slower than elsewhere in the City.

Similarly after a sustained reduction in Woodthorpe, case numbers there have now stabilised at around 45.

Only seven of the City’s 22 neighbourhoods now have an infection rate of over 400.

Vaccinations

Nationally only 222,249 doses were administered yesterday. That is the lowest figure for several days.

The cumulative total number of doses administered is now 6,573,570 (first) plus 470,478 (second)

York Covid Vaccination update statement 24/1/2021

The new National Vaccination Centre (NVC) opened on the Askham Bar site on Monday 18th January. This is an additional vaccinating facility to add to the original PCN vaccinating facility and now doubles the sites vaccinating capacity.

Both facilities were operating this weekend, and a record 4,000+ people were given their first Covid vaccination over the two day period!

Both facilities are operated by Nimbuscare, which is a collaboration of all the GP practices in York.

Along with those vaccinated at York Hospital, the number of people given first doses of a Covid vaccination in York now stands at over 35,000.

This is a fantastic effort by all those involved – GP practice staff, community pharmacy teams, Army medics, local dentists, Nimbuscare, Eboracum Security and many local volunteers.

Citywide Health – York’s Independent Pharmacy Group provides full pharmacy support at Askham Bar. This includes vaccine dilution training, competency sign off and monitoring. Our pharmacists are also responsible for vaccine receipt, storage, site distribution and record keeping, and have been vaccinating many patients.

Almost all over 80s in York have now been given their first vaccination, whilst practice nursing teams are close to completing all the city’s nursing homes, and are making good progress with those that are housebound.

Priority groups 3 (75-79yo) & 4 (70-74yo) are currently being invited to Askham Bar, and those who are clinically extremely vulnerable (shielding) will receive their invitation very shortly – please wait for your invitation and do not call your GP surgery as they are currently extremely busy.

Latest regional progress figures

Hospital

No new data has been published.

The last NHS stats published (19/1/21) indicated that 205 beds at t HE York Trust Hospitals were occupied by COVID patients.

Coronavirus York updates; 24th January 2021

Deaths

Two additional deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust. One occurred on Friday and one yesterday

Test results

FIFTY THREE positive test results announced today. That is the lowest single day figure since before Christmas. Weekend figures tend to be lower so there may be a correction later in the week.

The cumulative total is now 10,672

Rate /100k population has fallen to 354,69. The current trend would see the rate fall below 300 on Tuesday.

Infection rates in York and North Yorkshire continue to fall more sharply than either the regional or national trends.

Neighbourhoods

Infection rates are continuing to fall in all areas (with the sole exception of New Earswick)

Vaccinations

6,353,321 people in the UK have now received their first dose of a vaccine. 491,970 were inoculated yesterday (a daily high)

Good to see the Priory Medical Group using social media to keep their patients’ up to date.

and Nimbuscare

Coronavirus York updates; 23rd January 2021

Deaths

Two additional deaths were announced by the York Hospital Trust today. One occurred on Thursday and the other yesterday. The cumulative total since the 1st September now stands at 241 fatalities.

Test Results

SEVENTY SEVEN (77) new positive test results were announced today bringing the cumulative total to 10,619

The rate /100k population is down below 400 to 375.58. This is the lowest rate recorded in the City since 28th December.

Following the current trend, the rate will reduce below 300 early next week.

The York rate continues to be below the national rate. The infection rate is also now reducing quicker than is being seen elsewhere in the region

Neighbourhoods

Mostly good news as the number of cases in the City falls from 860 to 791.

The are now no neighbourhoods above the 800 case rate benchmark.

Two areas (South Bank/Dringhouses and the City Centre) are now below the 200 case rate benchmark.

Hospitals

There are currently 222 COVID patients being cared for by the York Hospital Trust. !3 patients are in intensive care.

The Trust has discharged 1536 COVID patients since the start of the pandemic.

Vaccinations

Nationally 5,861, 351 first doses have been administered. 468,617 second doses have also been administered.

478,248 first doses were administered yesterday – the highest daily total so far.

No local vaccination figures have been published today. (see next story)

Plea for more information on local vaccination progress

According to senior sources within the York Council, the Authority is once again fuming over the lack of information being provided by central government on the response to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Askham Bar vaccination site

A few months ago, the Council was highly critical when central government initially refused to share information about the progress being made with “test and trace” processes. It subsequently became clear that the process being used was ineffective with many contacts not being traced through the centralised system.

 Eventually the government relented and gave local Councils access to the data. This brought about an immediate improvement in contact successes, with locally based staff hand delivering notifications where telephone contact proved to be impossible.

Now a similar dispute has arisen over the availability of vaccination data.

Originally the government had promised that progress at a local level would be reported each day on its web site Vaccinations | Coronavirus in the UK (data.gov.uk).

But two weeks into the major part of the roll out of the jabs programme,  only national figures are being published. Even the promised regional performance figures have been removed from the site although these can be found via an NHS web page. Statistics » COVID-19 Vaccinations (england.nhs.uk)

No information is routinely being published at either local health trust or local authority level.

Some information was published by the Council yesterday giving the total number of jabs delivered by 18th January. “17,341 CYC residents had received the first dose”.  There was no indication of the source of the 4 day old claimed figure

We understand that the York Council’s position is

“ …fully agree that more data being shared both regionally and locally on vaccine progress would be useful. This continues to be a significant frustration for local councils and public health teams across the country. Despite commitments made by Ministers last week to grant access to localised vaccination data for local public health team use, the data to which York’s team has access to is very limited. This is making it harder for the public health team to assist logistically with the rollout and give residents a clearer understanding of the situation locally”.

The senior source goes on to say,

“We have made such representations with colleagues in the Department for Health, NHS and the CCG. Earlier today I once again wrote to the Health Secretary outlining the urgency of providing access to granular vaccination data; broken down by region, local authority, age and priority group. I am waiting to hear back on if and when further data might be able to be shared.

I, along with colleagues and partners, will keep making the case for accessibility of both vaccination distribution as well as supply data to aid in the NHS programme and ensure we are on track to protect our residents and return back to normal when it is safe to do so”.

The Council Leader is quoted in The Press as saying,

“It would be helpful if the Government gave more vaccination data; broken down by region, local authority, age and priority group”.

We are fully behind the Council in its quest from more openness.

We hope that local MPs add their voices to the calls.

Coronavirus York updates; 22nd January 2021

Deaths

FOUR (4) additional deaths have been reported by the York Hospital Trust today. Two occurred on Wednesday and two yesterday.

The cumulative number of COVID fatalities since 1st September is now 239.

NB. These are not all York residents.

Comparing the latest validated figures for York resident registered deaths ( week ending 8th January) there were 8 hospital deaths recorded.

During the same week the York Hospital Trust declared a total of 16 fatalities.

Test Results

SEVENTY SIX (76) additional positive test results were announced today. The cumulative total is now 10,542

The current rate /100k population figure is 408.34.

This is expected to trend down to below 350 over the next couple of days.

Infection rates in the City are now falling faster than is being seen at county, regional and national level.

Hospitals

According to government issued figures, there are currently (19/1/21) 205 COVID patients being cared for by the York Hospital Trust

Neighbourhoods

Wigginton remains the only area with a case rate in excess of 800. It has two fewer cases than were recorded on the previous day.

Case numbers in Foxwood North/Westfield/Chapelfields have fallen from a peak of 144 ,seen on 8th January, to 62 on 17th January.

The lowest infection rate (179.5) can now be found in the South Bank/Dringhouses area

Vaccinations

According to the latest Council update (see below) as at 18th January

  • “17,341 CYC residents had received the first dose and 1,015 had received both doses.
  • 8,999 people over 80 have received the first dose. This represents 79.4% of the estimated number of people aged over 80 in York (11,334 people).
  • 664 people aged 65+ who live in care homes have received the first dose”.

Tabulated local information is still not published although the York Council are now claiming that 80% of over 80’s have now been immunised

The latest vaccination figures published by the NHS today are reproduced below.

NHS figures published on 22nd January

Testing

Council commentary updated

The York Councils commentary on Coronavirus has been updated on its open data site

The briefing does refer to infection rates in “wards” This is not correct. Statistics are reported by Middle Layer Super Output Areas (MSOA) boundaries (which are very different from ward boundaries). MSOAs are a feature of census data gathering protocols.

People with Covid Symptoms

• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 18.1.21 there had been 267 total covid triages in the CYC area in the last 7 days. The peak number of triages was 653 in the 7 day period to 20.9.20.

• As at 20.1.21, the Covid Symptom App estimates 733 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,840 people). The peak rate was 1,282.6 on 7.1.21.

Diagnosed cases

• As at 21.1.21 York has had 10,466 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 4,969.2 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is below the national (5,493.24 and regional (5,531.1) averages.

• The PHE ‘Exceedance’ rating compares the no. of new cases over a 14 day period with the previous 6 weeks and provides a RAG rating to indicate if the previously observed trend in the no. of new cases is worsening. The latest rating for York (18.1.21) is Green.

• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 13.1.21 to 19.1.21 in York is 347.1 (using data published on Gov.uk on 21.1.21).

• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 10.1.21 to 16.1.21 was 424.5. The national and regional averages at this date were 484 and 257.3 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 21.1.21).

• York is currently ranked 65th out of 149 Upper Tier Local Authorities (UTLAs) with a rank of 1 indicating the lowest 7 day rate.

• For the 7 day period 9.1.21.to 15.1.21, 10 wards in York (Acomb, Westfield, Rawcliffe & Clifton Without, Dringhouses & Woodthorpe, Wheldrake, Holgate, Rural West York, Guildhall, Bishopthorpe and Micklegate) have seen a statistically significant fall in rates compared with the 7 day period 2.1.21 to 8.1.21. For the remaining wards there has been no statistically significant change in rates. No wards have seen a significant increase in rates.

• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 10.1.21 to 16.1.21 for people aged 60+ in York was 397.4. The national and regional averages were 383 and 201.1 respectively.

• As at 18.1.21, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 PCR tests only) was 12.9%. The national and regional averages are 14.2% and 10.2% respectively.

• As at 18.1.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 Lateral Flow Tests only) was 1.18%. The national and regional averages are 1.1% and 0.6% respectively.

• As at 19.1.21, the latest 14 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 1 and 2 PCR tests combined) was 13.5%. The national and regional averages were 14.5% and 10.3% respectively. The breakdown for York over the last 14 days is a 9.5% positivity rate for Pillar 1 tests and a 14.4% positivity rate for Pillar 2 PCR tests. Source PHE

• As at 21.1.21 York University reported 41 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test. The peak number was 331 on the 19.10.20.

• As at 18.1.21 York St. John reported 4 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test. The peak number was 82 on the 8.10.20

Contact Tracing

• Since 28.5.20 a total of 9,453 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 8,480 of the cases have been completed (89.7%). 22,810 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 16,736 of these have been completed (73.4%). Source: PHE Report.

• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 15.1.21, 711 ‘actionable’ positive COVID-19 CYC cases have been referred to the local contact tracing service. 688 of the referrals (96.8%) have been actioned and 23 are still ‘in progress. Of the referrals actioned, 469 (68.2%) were successful and 219 (31.8%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.

Cases in Residential Settings / Schools

• As at 21.1.21 there were 10 care homes in the CYC area with confirmed Covid-19 infection (at least 1 case of either a staff member or resident).

• The latest ‘outbreak’ (2+ cases) in a residential care setting in York was reported by PHE on 21.1.21 (2 homes).

• In the 7 days up to 17.1.21 there were 44 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive (across 25 different schools). NB Currently the majority of York children are not in the school setting.

COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital

• As at 20.1.21 there were 155 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The previous figure on 19.1.21 was 157

• As at 20.1.21 there were 8 confirmed Covid-19 patients and 0 suspected Covid-19 patient in the Intensive Treatment Unit. The previous figures on 18.1.21 were 5 and 1 respectively.

• As at 20.1.21 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 5 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours.

• As at 20.1.21 there had been 14 confirmed patients discharged with COVID-19 in last 24 hours

R Number

• The ‘R’ value (the number of people that one infected person will pass on a virus to, on average) for the North East and Yorkshire area on 15.1.21 was estimated to be in the range 1.1 to 1.3. The previous estimate was (1.1 to 1.4) on 8.1.21.

Vaccinations

• As at 18th January 17,341 CYC residents has received the first dose and 1,015 had received both doses. 8,999 people over 80 have received the first dose. This represents 79.4% of the estimated number of people aged over 80 in York (11,334 people). 664 people aged 65+ who live in care homes have received the first dose.

• In England between 8.12.20 and 20.1.20, 4,740,578 vaccinations had been administered (4,303,730) first dose and 436,848 second dose).

Deaths

The two sources about deaths from Covid-19 at LA level are ONS data and local registrar data. They are derived from the same source (civil registration data). ONS data is more comprehensive as it includes deaths of York residents which have occurred and been registered outside York. Local registrar data is useful as it enables a breakdown by age and gender. The most recently available data is summarised below:

• ONS weekly data: In the most recent week (2.1.20 to 8.1.20) 8 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (all in hospital).

• ONS Cumulative data: Since the start of the pandemic, for deaths occurring up to 8th January 2020 and registered up to 16th January 2021, 238 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (128 in hospital, 91 in care homes, 13 at home and 6 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 113 which is lower than the national average of 145.3.

• ‘Excess’ deaths – all causes (ONS). In 2020 there were a total of 165 ‘excess deaths’ in York in 2020 compared with the average weekly numbers for 2014-2018. The breakdown over the year is: 18 fewer deaths in weeks 2-14, 210 more deaths in weeks 15-21 (when covid deaths were at their peak) and 27 fewer deaths in weeks 22-53.

• Local Registrar data (Cumulative): Since the start of the pandemic (using data for deaths occurring up to 13.1.21), a cumulative total of 241 deaths of CYC residents where COVID-19 was mentioned (confirmed or suspected) on the death certificate, have been registered. The average age of the people who died was 82, with an age range of 44-104. The age profile of those dying in York is older than the national average. 117 of the 241 were male (48.5 %), less than the national average (55.1%). 86 people (35.7%) died in nursing /care homes; (the national average is 24.37%). In addition 20 people (8.3%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.

Coronavirus York updates; 21st January 2021

Deaths

TEN (10) additional deaths reported by the York Hospital Trust today. 6 occurred on Tuesday and 4 yesterday. Brings the cumulative death toll since 1st September to 235.

The average number of COVID deaths in the York Hospital Trust area is now averaging over five a day.

Test Results

NINETY TWO additional positive test results today bringing total to 10,466

The rate /100k population figure has now fallen to 424.48. It is projected to fall below 400 on Saturday.

The infection rate is now below the peak seen in the second wave when cases reached 449.4 on 16th October.

The infection rate in York is now falling at a faster rate than the decline being seen at national and regional levels.

Hospital

There has been a significant increase in the number of beds occupied by COVID patients at the York Hospital Trust

There are currently 8 patients in intensive care.

Neighbourhoods

We are seeing a continuing reduction in infection levels across most of the City

Only one neighbourhood (Wigginton) now has a rate in the highest category

For the first time since 30th December we have a neighbourhood (Holgate East) with a rate below 200.

Vaccinations

More than 80% of over 80s and people in care homes have now been vaccinated – and letters are being sent to over 70s – according to the Council

4,973,249 people nationally have now had their first dose of vaccine. 464,036 have had the second dose.

363,508 first doses were administered yesterday which was a record high

Reports are still coming in about problems yesterday at the regional vaccination centre at Askham Bar. Two hour waits while queuing in a car and difficult to access toilet facilities were cited.

We had a look at the vaccination site today.

Essentially, the authorities are using the new park and ride car park as an assembly area. They are then metering cars onto the service road and hence to the testing site

Assembly point on new Park and Ride site

When we arrived, there were about 15 cars in the assembly area. Some has just arrived. They were all released within 10 minutes.

They then queued on the service road to the rear of Tesco.

They seemed to be in the queue for no more than 15 minutes (papers were being checked at the head of the queue)

Entrance to old park and ride site

Vehicles were then released and asked to park in the old park and ride site.

Within a few moments, occupants were then invited to go into one of the marquees for a jab.

Old park and ride site parking

We think that the process would have taken less than 60 minutes start to finish for most, if not all, people.

It looked quite efficient although, we may have chanced upon a slack time. Those leaving the site spoke highly of the process.

We’d say the site was processing about 30/40 cars per hour.

People walking/cycling to the site have a separate entrance which we couldn’t monitor – but not large numbers.

The Health Service Journal (HSJ) has reported that health officials in Yorkshire had been told their vaccine supplies would be rationed since they were doing so well in rolling it out and limited supplies had to be diverted to areas which were struggling to reach vulnerable people.

Sources told the HSJ that the vaccines handed to primary care networks in the Yorkshire and North East NHS region would drop from 200,000 to 100,000 next week.

According to figures published yesterday, between December 8 and January 19 some 670,778 people in Yorkshire and the North East have had their first dose, and 71,378 second doses have been delivered, making 742,156 in total.

Coronavirus York updates; 20th January 2021

Deaths

SEVEN additional deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today. Two occurred yesterday, three on Monday and two on Sunday.

The 11 fatalities seen on Sunday was the largest single day death toll recorded during the pandemic.

Test Results

ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY TWO (142) new positive test results today. That is the largest total seen during the last 7 days. It mainly reflects test results counted on Monday (which is usually the highest daily figure).

The case rate trend remains downward. The current figure is 456.77 /100k population. It is still trending to go below 400 by the end of the week.

The infection rate in York is falling faster than the decline at national level.

It remains above the county and regional average.

7755 PCR tests were carried out in York during the week ending 15th January. The positivity rate was 13.4%

915 “lateral flow” tests were conducted on 19th January.

Hospital

227 patients are now being treated for Coronavirus at the York Hospital Trust. That is a record high number.

However, the Trust also reports that since the start of the pandemic 1503 COVID patients had been treated and discharged from their hospitals

Neighbourhoods

For the first time this month the number of COVID cases has fallen below 1000.

Only 5 of the 22 neighbourhoods in York saw an increase in case numbers during the seven days ending 15th January.

The highest rate can now be found in Wigginton

The lowest rate is in Holgate East

Vaccinations

There were reports today of some minor delays at the Regional Vaccination hub at Askham Bar (Moor Lane).

Nationally 4,609,740 people have received their first dose vaccination to date. 460,625 people have received their second dose.

The 343,163 first doses administered on 19th January was the highest ever daily figure

York Council increases support for York businesses

More of York’s businesses are now eligible for lockdown support payments, following an extension to the ‘Additional Restrictions Grants’ on Monday.

Senior councilors today approved proposals to extend grant payments to businesses severely impacted by current national restrictions. These are:

  • Offering grants to businesses which trade almost exclusively in York, but are not residents of the area, including many York-licensed taxi drivers and market traders who missed out on previous grants
  • Giving the small number of B&Bs and hotels who legitimately pay council tax, rather than business rates, the same level of grant as other accommodation businesses
  • Adding the childcare sector to the list of eligible businesses, and allowing nurseries to qualify for the highest level of grant
  • Supporting supply-chain businesses who are dealing with the closures of their customers.

Applications for eligible businesses are now open via the City of York Council online form, which can be found here. For those who apply successfully for the first time, a grant for November’s lockdown period will automatically be received.

Any business which has already successfully applied for the schemes does not need to reapply. Grants will automatically be distributed and this is being managed by the council’s payments team, who are aiming to process the grants quickly.

Councillor Nigel Ayre, Executive Member for Finance and Performance, said:

Like before, we are working swiftly to ensure that local businesses receive the financial support they need to get through this difficult period.

“I would like to thank Council officers who are working around the clock to distribute these grants as quickly as possible. I would also like to thank our local business community in the city for helping us keep businesses informed and to reassure them that this support is on its way.

“Whilst we have made this process as simple as possible by automatically paying businesses which have previously received grants, we know that there will be some businesses who have not applied. I would strongly encourage these businesses to check the criteria and if you qualify, put in an application via www.york.gov.uk/COVIDBusiness .”

Councillor Andrew Waller, executive member for economy and strategic planning, said:

These new changes extend the support businesses we know have missed out on the latest government grants. We’ve listened to the city’s businesses and adapted these grant schemes in response, to protect jobs and the city’s wider economy.

“The Additional Restrictions Grant has already allowed to help hundreds of York small businesses who have seen their income dry up, and these adjustments have enabled more businesses operating in the city to get some assistance.

“We know that the need across the city continues to grow, and we remain committed to lobbying for more from central government. We realise that as situations change others are likely to fall through the cracks, and if that is you, please contact us as soon as possible at economicgrowth@york.gov.uk. We appreciate those who have already contacted us, and for continuing to work with us to get recognition for sectors who need assistance.

At this time, many people are feeling overwhelmed and may feel unable to cope with day-to-day life. For those who feel in need of emotional support, a variety of resources can be found via Live Well York.

The decision session of the Executive Member for Finance and Performance took place at 2pm on Monday. You can view the agenda and find details of how to live stream it here .