Julie Webster, Director of Public Health introduced the report which provided the Committee with an update on surveillance data and key areas of development in relation to Wirral’s Covid-19 response and delivery of the Local Outbreak Management Plan.

It was reported that the 7 day incidence rate had significantly increased from 15 cases on 20 May to 153 cases on 4 June, which translated to an increase from 4.6 cases per 100,000 to 47.2 cases per 100,000. There had been a significant increase in cases in the young age groups, particularly 10-19 and 30-39, but it was reported that there hadn’t yet been a big increase in hospital admissions, with two patients in Arrowe Park with Covid-19 illnesses as at 4 June.

Further outbreaks were being reported in school and hospitability settings, who were working hard to put measures in place. There had also been some outbreaks in care homes, but often these were as a result of the increased testing programme as opposed to due to people having symptoms or becoming ill which was testament to the vaccination programme. The Director of Public Health further outlined that any further relaxation of the roadmap would increase case rates therefore residents were encouraged to continue to practice the core principles of hands, face and space.

Members highlighted the links between deprivation and concerns around reporting as unwell due to concerns of support and pay, alongside the links between Houses of Multiple Occupancies and the spread of the virus.

Resolved – That

the contents of the report, the progress made to date and to support the ongoing COVID-19 response be noted.