FIVE additional deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today. Three of these occurred yesterday.
FIFTY (50) additional positive test results have been announced today. That takes the cumulative total to 6070. Some of the positive results have been backdated to November. However 44 positive results were recorded on 15th December – a monthly high.
The rate/100k population has now risen to 69.8. It is expected to rise to 84.0 tomorrow.
The City’s case rate – although now increasing – remains below the county, regional and national averages.
Two neighbourhoods are showing fewer than 3 cases in each today. They are Clifton North and New Earswick
The case rate in Poppleton, Rufforth & the Askhams has jumped to 188.3.
New restrictions imposed – Christmas affected
New tier 4 lockdown restrictions have been imposed on the South East of England.
People should not travel into a tier four area, though support bubbles remain unaffected as do the exemptions for separated parents and their children.
For those in tiers one, two and three, rules allowing up to three households to meet will now be limited to Christmas Day only.
Christmas bubbles for those in tiers one to three will not be able include anyone in tier four.
In tier four, people should not mix with anyone outside their own household, apart from support bubbles.
New covid marshalls start to help protect people and places
New covid support marshalls are supporting the city’s residents, visitors and businesses to maintain covid guidelines and protect the people and places we love.
The new officers will provide advice and help to businesses and people. They will be reminding restauranteurs or licensees about covid guidelines, advising shoppers about face coverings, challenging group sizes or supporting covid-safe queuing to enter busy premises or at bus stops and taxi ranks.
The marshalls will also help discourage people from gathering, including at New Year’s Eve when people will be asked to celebrate at home and not linger in town after closing time. They will also be visiting outlying centres of York too, to help local communities and businesses follow the regulations.
Sharon Stoltz, director of public health at City of York Council, said:
“Helping people stay safe has a direct impact on keeping the places we love open.
“These new officers will play a valuable role in supporting us all to socially distance and to support businesses by signposting them to sources of advice on covid infection control measures, licensing, grants and other matters.”
All our marshalls will carry City of York Council identification and will never ask for money.
Anyone wishing to report concerns about how the covid regulations are being observed should email public.protection@york.gov.uk.
Book essential food and prescriptions now!
With shopping queues building, online slots being booked and bank holidays approaching, residents are reminded to order essential groceries and prescriptions ahead of festive season.
We have sent residents who are clinically extremely vulnerable, details of the link to LiveWellYork website’s list of local food delivers. This was compiled and shared during the first lockdown to support those shielding or self-isolating and is at: www.livewellyork.co.uk/s4s/WhereILive/Council?pageId=5223
Anyone who has repeat prescriptions are asked to check their medication. If they need more to see them through to the new year, please contact their GP.
Cllr Darryl Smalley, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Communities, said:
We don’t want anyone to find themselves without food or essential medicine over the festive season. So please plan ahead and use the brilliant support networks so many residents have found invaluable over the summer.
“Support for people who urgently need some extra help is still there, but we hope everyone can relax into Christmas and the New Year knowing that they have the essentials they need in advance.”
Dr Nigel Wells, NHS Vale of York CCG Clinical Chair, said:
The lead-up to Christmas can be a busy time for the NHS and local health services, so those on repeat prescriptions are advised to order them well in advance so they can enjoy the festive season in good health.
“Having a medicine cabinet at home with some simple over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and anti-diarrhoea tablets is also recommended so you can treat any common illnesses or ailments yourself, without needing to see a GP.
“Many winter illnesses are self-limiting, which means they will clear up on their own so they can be treated at home using over-the-counter products from your local pharmacy.” In an emergency or if you don’t have any other support, please email covid19help@york.gov.uk or call 01904 551550.
Symptom-free testing expanded
After the successful launch of targeted symptom-free testing in the city this week the council is now expanding its offer to those who support those who are most at risk from Coronavirus.
Since opening the service on Monday to those who work in retail, leisure and transport hundreds of bookings have been made and the council is thanking those who have been tested so far as part of the city’s efforts to slow the spread.
Those who work with, live with or support those most at risk from Coronavirus are now being invited to book their free tests.
Councillor Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Social Care and Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board visited the testing site to thank staff for their efforts.
Around one in three people who have coronavirus have no symptoms and will be spreading it without realising it. The rapid-turnaround lateral flow tests, which provide results within 1 hour, will be used to proactively test asymptomatic individuals. This will further support the local effort to drive down the city’s infection rate.
Symptom-free tests are available to book online by visiting the council website.
Individuals who can’t access booking online can call 01904 551 559 to arrange an appointment. The booking line is open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Anyone who has Coronavirus symptoms should not book a symptom free test. They should self-isolate at home, and book a Covid test through the NHS website or calling 119.
The Council is jointly working with York St John University to use Foss Sports Hall on the university’s Lord Mayor’s Walk Campus for the symptom free testing. The facility was used for their successful testing programme before students returned home for the holiday period.
THREE (3) additional deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today. One occurred on Tuesday, two on Wednesday and one yesterday. The cumulative second wave hospital death toll has now reached 126.
FIFTEEN (15) additional positive test results announced today. Brings cumulative total to 6020
The rate /100k population figure has risen to 69.32. That is the highest level seen since 28th November.
It is expected to trend up to at least 83.0 during the next couple of days.
The neighbourhood Figures reveal that, for the first time since 21st November, no areas have fewer then 3 COVID cases.
Case rates are volatile at a local level and may reflect transient household infections
Daily case numbers have fluctuated since the end of lockdown 2 on 2nd December
York Council commentary on pandemic
The York Council has updated its “open data” commentary on the pandemic.
People with Covid Symptoms
• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 14.12.20 there had been 121 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 16.12.20, the Covid Symptom App estimates 354.8 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,540 people). The peak rate was 1,116.3 on 31.10.20.
Diagnosed cases (Pillar 1&2 combined)
• As at 17.12.20 York has had 6,005 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 2,851.1 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is below the national (2,957.2) and regional (4,246.6) 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 (14.12.20) is Amber.
• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 9.12.20 to 15.12.20 in York is 78.3 (using data published on Gov.uk on 17.12.20).
• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 6.12.20 to 12.12.20 was 63.6. The national and regional averages at this date were 206.6 and 151.1 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 17.12.20).
• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 6.12.20 to 12.12.20 for people aged 60+ in York was 52.4. The national and regional averages were 138.5 and 131.5 respectively.
• The positivity rate in York had fallen since a peak of almost 18% in mid-October down to less than 2% in early December. As at 14.12.20, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 2.87%. The national and regional averages are 8.1% and 6.5% respectively. The breakdown for York over the last 7 days by type of test is 128 positives out of 3,021 lab based (PCR) tests (4.24%) and 0 positive out of 1,435 rapid (lateral flow) tests (0%).
• As at 17.12.20 York University reported 7 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 14.12.20 York St. John reported 1 individual within the University community who was 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 4,866 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 4,298 of the cases have been completed (88.3%). 13,580 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 8,339 of these have been completed (61.4%). Source: PHE Report.
• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 11.12.20, 361 ‘actionable’ positive COVID-19 CYC cases have been referred to the local contact tracing service. 360 of the referrals (99.7%) have been actioned and 1 is still ‘in progress. Of the referrals actioned, 263 (73.1%) were successful and 97 (26.9%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.
Cases in Residential Settings / Schools
• As at 16.12.20 there were 2 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 16.12.20 (1 home – not an elderly person’s setting).
• In the 7 days up to 13.12.20 there were 11 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive (across 9 different schools).
COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital
• As at 16.12.20 there were 41 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The previous figure on 15.12.20 was 34.
• As at 16.12.20 there were 3 confirmed Covid-19 patients and 0 suspected Covid-19 patients in the Intensive Treatment Unit. The previous figures on 15.12.20 were 3 and 0 respectively.
• As at 16.12.20 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 0 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours.
Recovery from Covid-19
• Between 13.4.20 and 13.12.20, 264 CYC residents had recovered and been successfully discharged from York hospital after needing NHS care for symptoms linked to covid-19 infection. 7 people were discharged in the most recent week.
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 11.12.20 was estimated to be in the range 0.7 to 0.9. The previous estimate was (0.7 to 0.9) on 4.12.20.
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 provides a breakdown by age and gender. The most recently available data is summarised below:
• ONS weekly data: For deaths occurring up to 4th December 2020 and registered up to 12th December 2020, 205 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (99 in hospital, 89 in care homes, 12 at home and 5 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 97.33 which is lower than the national average of 116.54. There have been 33 Covid-19 deaths of CYC residents reported by ONS in the last 9 weeks (Weeks 41 to 49).
• ‘Excess’ deaths – all causes (ONS). Between week 2 and week 49 there were a total of 138 ‘excess deaths’ in York compared with the average weekly numbers for 2014-2018. The breakdown over the year so far is: 19 fewer deaths in weeks 2-14, 210 more deaths in weeks 15-21 (when covid deaths were at their peak) and 53 fewer deaths in weeks 22-49.
• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 14.12.20 (for deaths occurring up to 9.12.20), a cumulative total of 198 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 82.4, with an age range of 53-104. The age profile of those dying in York is older than the national average. 97 of the 198 were male (49%), less than the national average (55.4%). 83 people (41.9%) died in nursing /care homes; (the national average is 26.53%). In addition 16 people (8.08%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.
Test numbers and positivity
The government have published updated figures which show the number of COVID tests carried out in York. During the week ending 9th December 6674 P1/P2 test were carried out. 3380 lateral flow tests were conducted. The percentage testing positive was 2.17%.
This is the lowest level seen since September.
However these test were conducted before the recent surge in case numbers which became apparent from 10th December. Next weeks figures may therefore be viewed with some anxiety
NB. Local public health officials are blaming personal interactions, rather than communal activities like shopping, for the most recent increase in case numbers in the City
There have been no further deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today
An unwelcome milestone has been passed with over 6000 positive test results now recorded in the City. Today THIRTY THREE (33) additional infections were announced bringing the cumulative total to 6005.
The projected rate /100k population for Tuesday 15th December is 78.3. That would be the highest since lockdown was relaxed on 2nd.
There is now an urgent need for a fresh statement from local Public Health officials. The spike may be influenced by increased testing using the “lateral flow” system. If so, then an analysis of the source of the “positives” is required.
If not, then the characteristics of any “contact” chains needs to be explored and publicised more fully.
The neighbourhood figures for 11th December (pre expected spike) show three areas with less than 3 cases. In two there were zero infections.
While case numbers are fairly static at regional level (prior to the expected Christmas spike) at national level infection rates are already increasing.
No change to Tier 2 restrictions in York
York and the rest of North Yorkshire will continue with Tier 2 level restrictions at least until the new year. The announcement was made by the government today. It comes as little surprise given the increases in infection rates in the City over the last few days.
According to the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, York will need to have less than 45 cases /100k population before it will be considered for Tier 1 restrictions. Currently York has a case rate of 69.3 (and rising).
TWO further deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today. One occurred on Sunday and one on Monday. The total “second wave” death toll at the York and Scarborough hospitals has now reached 122.
The age profile of positive test results has changed significantly over the last couple of weeks. The second wave infection numbers were predominantly to be found in those aged under 60 during October and November.
Now those aged over 60 form about 50% of the cases. This is potentially significant as it is likely to have a greater impact on NHS capacity.
TWENTY SEVEN (27) additional positive test results announced today bringing the cumulative total to 5972.
The infection rate /100k population figure has risen again to 65.5. Last Sunday’s total number of positive test results, at 32, was the highest seen in the City since 1st December.
Unfortunately infection rates are now increasing at City, County, regional and national levels.
At neighbourhood level, Haxby now has significantly higher infection rates than other parts of the City.
Only two areas (Wigginton and Rawcliffe/Clifton South) have fewer than 3 cases each.
Questions answered live on Facebook today
Join the next live #AskTheLeaders Live Coronavirus Q&A’s on the Council’s Facebook page on Wednesday 16 December from 5.30-6.30pm.
Wednesday will see the panel discuss the forthcoming easing of restrictions over the festive period as well as ways we can continue to keep each other safe whilst enjoying the festive season.
The panel includes:
Cllr Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care
Sharon Stolz, Director for Public Health
Alyson Scott, Chief Executive Officer, York Mind
Owen Kavanagh, Senior Lecturer in Biosciences & Biomedical Science, York St John University
How can I get involved?
Residents are invited to submit questions in advance by emailing them to YourQuestions@york.gov.ukor commenting on the live video on Facebook.
Cllr Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care said:
It has been an exceptionally tough year for everyone across the city and beyond. Whilst the festive period will see a national easing of restrictions, it is vital that we all continue to keep up our collective effort and follow the hands, space, face guidance.
“This week we will be answering your questions focusing on the restrictions, which will be coming into place from 23 – 27 December. I’d encourage people to get involved by sending in their questions to yourquestions@york.gov.uk, or commenting on the livestream.”
For the latest York updates on service changes, online support and how you can get involved in supporting your community visit www.york.gov.uk/Coronavirus
SIX (6) additional deaths announced by York Hospital Trust. Five occurred on Saturday and one on Sunday. Brings the cumulative “second wave” death toll, at the York and Scarborough hospitals, up to 120.
COVID related deaths at York and Scarborough hospitals
TWENTY SEVEN (27) additional positive test results announced today. That brings the cumulative total up to 5945
The rate /100k population has increased to 62.2. It is expected to reach at least 68.4 over the next few days.
Infection rates generally across the country are now increasing again.
It is likely that families will be asked not to mix over the Christmas period while some schools and colleges may decide to take an extended break
Little change to neighbourhood figures although, for the first time since September, Heslington is now recording fewer than 3 cases.
ONE additional death announced by the York Hospital Trust today. The fatality happened on Saturday and brings the second wave cumulative toll at the York and Scarborough hospitals to 114.
NINETEEN (19) positive test results announced today. Brings cumulative total up to 5918.
Case rate /100k population increases to 61.3
Case numbers at county and regional level have stabilised although they continue to increase at national level.
There is little change at neighbourhood level.
There has been an increase in the number of cases in Bishopthorpe/Copmanthorpe.
There are less than 3 cases now in Clifton Without/Skelton which, a couple of weeks ago, had the highest rate in the City
TWO more York Hospital Trust deaths announced today. One occurred on Wednesday and one on Thursday. The cumulative second wave death toll at the York and Scarborough hospitals has now reached 112.
TWENTY SEVEN (27) additional positive test results were announced today bringing the cumulative total to 5858.
The case rate /100k population has increased to 65.5.
Although infection rates are rising again, cases aren’t concentrated in particular neighbourhoods. (In October, Heslington was by far the worst hit area).
Now only two neighbourhoods have more than 10 cases. The highest case rate can now be found in Acomb (124.2). However this is still well below regional and national averages.
Booking open for York’s targeted symptom-free covid testing
Covid testing for people who are symptom-free is now available in York, as part of the city’s bid to further drive down the spread of the virus.
Booking for the free rapid symptom-free tests is now open for individuals who come into contact with lots of other people as part of their work.
At a meeting of York’s Outbreak Management Board, partners from across the city agreed to make targeted tests initially available to residents who work in the retail, hospitality or transport sector (including taxi drivers).
The Council will be looking to further roll out enhanced symptom-free testing in the coming months, extending it to other groups, such as those who have contact with vulnerable people through work, a voluntary role or unpaid caring role.
Around one in three people who have coronavirus have no symptoms and will be spreading it without realising it. The rapid-turnaround lateral flow tests, which provide results within 30 minutes, will be used to proactively test asymptomatic individuals. This will further support the local effort to drive down the city’s infection rate, as those who test positive and their contacts will be asked to self-isolate.
Tests for people working in the retail, hospitality or transport sectors, and who are free of Coronavirus symptoms, will be available to book online by visiting the council website.
Individuals who can’t access booking online can call 01904 551 559 to arrange an appointment. The booking line is open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Anyone who has Coronavirus symptoms should not book a symptom free test. They should self-isolate at home, and book a covid test through the NHS website or calling 119.
The Council is jointly working with York St John University to use Foss Sports Hall on the university’s Lord Mayor’s Walk Campus for the symptom free testing. The facility was used for their successful testing programme before students returned home for the holiday period.
Cllr Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council and Chair of the York Outbreak Management Advisory Board said:
We are hugely grateful to York St John University for allowing us to utilise their testing site for the next few weeks.
“We want to build on the successful targeted testing both universities carried out in recent weeks. This is another example of how York is coming together to fight the pandemic and ensure we are doing all we can to protect our city.
“I would urge those that are eligible to book their tests to help keep the people we love safe and the places we love open.”
Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health said:
We are taking a targeted approach to testing to help protect the city and slow the spread of the virus.
“Identifying asymptomatic cases is another form of defence for the city against Coronavirus. The early identification of positive cases and subsequent self-isolation will help us slow the spread.
“We urge all those who are eligible to book regular tests to help in the city’s fight against Coronavirus. Anyone who has symptoms should continue to book their test online or call 119.
“Whilst this is another defence to help us slow the spread we can’t lower our guard and must all continue to do all we can to practice Hands, Face, Space to stay safe and protect those around us.”
Professor Karen Bryan, Vice Chancellor of York St John University said:
Our University community has found the testing process to be quick and easy. Symptom-free testing can offer peace of mind to those concerned about passing on the virus to others. We are delighted to offer our test site to City of York Council to make targeted testing more widely available to our local community.”
Health Minister Lord Bethell said:
We’ve already come so far since first setting up a national testing programme at an unprecedented pace to help counter COVID-19, but we continue to strive to go further, faster.
“Innovations such as lateral flow tests hold the key to the next phase of our ambition to see mass, rapid testing available to people across the country.
“I’m delighted that the City of York Council and York St John University are working with us to pilot the latest technology in York and I look forward to seeing the fruits of their labour, both in helping target the virus locally, and helping find ways to roll this technology out further soon.”
More information about the tests and how to book one is available on the Council website.
Council commentary updated
The Council have updated their weekly “open data” commentary on the pandemic.
People with Covid Symptoms
• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 7.12.20 there had been 133 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 9.12.20, the Covid Symptom App estimates 320.2 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,538 people). The peak rate was 1,116.3 on 31.10.20.
Diagnosed cases (Pillar 1&2 combined)
• As at 10.12.20 York has had 5,831 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 2,768.5 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is above the national average (2,721.3) but below the regional average (4,093).
• 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 (7.12.20) is Green.
• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 2.12.20 to 8.12.20 in York is 57 (using data published on Gov.uk on 10.12.20).
• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 29.11.20 to 5.12.20 was 60.8. The national and regional averages at this date were 153 and 156.2 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 10.12.20).
• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 28.11.20 to 4.12.20 for people aged 60+ in York was 76.7. The national and regional averages were 113.2 and 141.9 respectively.
• The positivity rate in York has fallen since a peak of almost 18% in mid-October. As at 9.12.20, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 1.95%. The national and regional averages are 6.1% and 5.9% respectively. The breakdown for York over the last 7 days by type of test is 124 positives out of 2.975 lab based (PCR) tests and 3 positives out of 3,537 rapid (lateral flow) tests.
• As at 10.12.20 York University reported 11 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 9.12.20 York St. John reported 1 individual within the University community who was 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 4,680 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 4,137 of the cases have been completed (88.4%). 13,212 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 7,992 of these have been completed (60.5%). Source: PHE Report.
• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 4.12.20, 339 ‘actionable’ positive COVID-19 CYC cases have been referred to the local contact tracing service. 339 of the referrals (100%) have been actioned. Of the referrals actioned, 247 (72.9%) were successful and 92 (27.1%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.
Cases in Residential Settings / Schools
• As at 10.12.20 there were 0 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 on 25.11.20 (1 home).
• In the 7 days up to 6.12.20 there were 10 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive (across 7 different schools).
COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital
• As at 9.12.20 there were 31 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The previous figure on 8.12.20 was 34.
• As at 9.12.20 there were 3 confirmed Covid-19 patients and 0 suspected Covid-19 patients in the Intensive Treatment Unit. The previous figures on 8.12.20 were 4 and 0 respectively.
• As at 9.12.20 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 1 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours
Recovery from Covid-19
• Between 13.4.20 and 6.12.20, 257 CYC residents had recovered and been successfully discharged from York hospital after needing NHS care for symptoms linked to covid-19 infection. 7 people were discharged in the most recent week.
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 4.12.20 was estimated to be in the range 0.7 to 0.9. The previous estimate was (0.8 to 1.0) on 27.11.20.
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 provides a breakdown by age and gender. The most recently available data is summarised below:
• ONS weekly data: For deaths occurring up to 27th November 2020 and registered up to 5th December 2020, 196 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (95 in hospital, 86 in care homes, 11 at home and 4 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 93.06 which is lower than the national average of 111.88. There have been 24 Covid-19 deaths of CYC residents reported by ONS in the last 8 weeks (Weeks 41 to 48).
• ‘Excess’ deaths – all causes (ONS). Between week 2 and week 48 there were a total of 137 ‘excess deaths’ in York compared with the average weekly numbers for 2014-2018. The breakdown over the year so far is: 18 fewer deaths in weeks 2-14, 210 more deaths in weeks 15-21 (when covid deaths were at their peak) and 55 fewer deaths in weeks 22-48.
• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 7.12.20 (for deaths occurring up to 2.12.20), a cumulative total of 193 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 82.5, with an age range of 53-104. The age profile of those dying in York is older than the national average. 96 of the 193 were male (49.7%), less than the national average (55.4%). 82 people (42.5%) died in nursing /care homes; (the national average is 26.53%). In addition 16 people (8.29%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.
Shop local and continue to protect your loved ones
City of York Council thank residents for continuing to follow guidelines, resulting in a steady decline in local COVID-19 cases.
Councillors are urging residents to continue in their efforts to stop the spread of the virus and support local businesses this festive weekend.
The latest figures for York, as of December 5, show 60.8 cases per 100,000 compared to a national average of 153 and a regional average of 156.2 per 100,000. For a daily update on the latest case data, residents can visit the council’s Facebookand Twitterpages or theOpen Data COVID-19 Daily Data Tracker.
Nationally, this week has marked the start of the biggest vaccination programme that the NHS has ever undertaken, and is a positive move towards overcoming the virus. However, to keep York’s local COVID-19 case rate low, residents are being urged to keep up their efforts and to remember the essential steps we must each take to keep our loved ones safe:
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
Wear a face covering in busy public spaces.
Give people space and keep apart from people you don’t live with (2m is best).
If you have symptoms you should stay at home, only leaving to get a test.
Self-isolate when asked to by test and trace as well as if you have symptoms.
Meet those you do not live with outdoors but not in groups of more than six
Next week, on Wednesday 16 December, at 5:30pm, the Council will be hosting their next ‘Ask the Leaders’ Facebook Live Q&A session. The panel will be discussing the Coronavirus Vaccine, Christmas guidance and emotional wellbeing support.
Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council said:
“I’d like to once again thank all York residents and businesses who continue to work hard to help bring the city’s case rate down.
“As the vaccine roll-out commences, we cannot afford to be complacent and must continue in our efforts to keep our city and each other safe.
“In York we are lucky to have such an amazing variety of local independent businesses, who have all played a key role in our efforts against the virus. The best way we can say our thanks is by shopping local and supporting them this festive season.”
Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health at City of York Council said:
“As our attention has been draw to the hope of the vaccine roll-out this past week, myself and York’s Public Health team look forward to helping colleagues in the NHS with the delivery of programme. In the meantime, Hands, face, space remains the best defence against the virus for York residents, and we must all make sure we continue to follow government guidance.
“Over the coming weeks it’s important we look after both our physical and emotional health. Simple steps can make a great difference and I encourage residents to look out for vulnerable friends and family this winter season. Winter health tips include:
Keep warm – The temperature in your home should be at least 18 degrees. If you need help with fuel bills, grants may be available.
Get a flu vaccine – Many people, including those aged over 65, are entitled to a free flu jab – your GP will contact you if you are eligible.
Eat a healthy diet and try to ensure you have regular meals and warm drinks throughout the day.
Keep well stocked up with prescription medicines, especially as the festive season approaches. Ask your pharmacist for advice if you aren’t sure what you need.
Check on elderly or medically vulnerable neighbours and relatives, particularly in icy weather. This can be done in a Covid-safe way, either by telephone or a socially distanced doorstep chat.”
If you’re struggling to manage, or you don’t have any support, but need it because of COVID-19, the council’s COVID-19 Helpline for York may be able to help you through this difficult time. Please call 01904 551550 or email COVID19help@york.gov.uk. Residents can also visitwww.york.gov.uk/Coronavirus to find out the most recent support and advice available for the area.
New covid support marshalls are supporting the city’s residents, visitors and businesses to maintain covid guidelines and protect the people and places we love.
