First coronavirus death at KGH in over a month

KGH has recorded its first coronavirus-related death in over a month, official figures show.

Data from NHS England released today shows KGH recorded one death on Tuesday, August 25.

It is the first coronavirus-related death at the Rothwell Road hospital since two were recorded on July 23 and takes the toll to 220 deaths.

In today's release, the NHS confirmed 10 deaths occurring in six hospitals between August 2 to August 26.

The news comes as Northamptonshire's director of public health, Lucy Wightman, warned that the county is still not on top of the pandemic locally and cases are continuing to rise in Kettering and Corby.

She said: "From a point of view of Kettering and Corby, one of the things we have talked about is that increase in the young age group. Kettering in particular, the recent increase is very much focused on younger age groups and in Corby we are seeing an increase in the under 20s."

The public health director said summer holiday socialising was one reason for the increasing figures.

Corby saw its highest number of cases confirmed in a single day since April on Tuesday, with 12 new positive tests.

On the same day, 10 new coronavirus cases were confirmed in Kettering, the most in a single day since May.

Residents are being urged to follow guidance:

- Keep two metres from others at all times

- Limit contact with those outside their household or bubble

- If you must meet with those outside your household or bubble, meet outside

- Do not share items with others outside of your household or bubble

- If social distancing at two metres is not possible, always use a face covering

- Avoid using public transport or car sharing. Wear face coverings if you must travel with others

- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly for 20 seconds each time

- Work from home if you can

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