'Could only be matter of time before coronavirus hospital admissions increase sharply in Northamptonshire'

It could only be a matter of time before hospital admissions for coronavirus increase sharply in Northamptonshire, according to public health bosses.

The current number of Covid-19 patients at Northampton and Kettering hospitals is slightly higher than during the summer but still low, a virtual press conference heard yesterday (Friday, September 18).

But the amount of people showing up at GP surgeries with coronavirus symptoms is increasing, which was a precursor for hospital admissions at the beginning of the lockdown, Northamptonshire County Council public health consultant Rhosyn Harris said.

"The figures have remained low over the summer but they are higher now than they have been for July and August but still low," she said.

"But we're seeing rises in attendances at doctor surgeries with Covid-19 symptoms and we know this precedes hospital cases so it could be an early warning sign for us.

"The figures are not rising sharply here but it could only be a matter of time."

The exact number of Covid-19 hospital patients in Northamptonshire was not revealed as it is so low that it could identify the individuals, Ms Harris added.

Last week, the most accurate set of data, 217 tested positive for coronavirus in the county, 15 through private settings like hospitals and care homes, and the rest through community testing centres and at-home kits.

Anyone with coronavirus symptoms - a fever, a persistent cough or a loss of taste or smell - should get a test by calling 119 or clicking here.