Northamptonshire school Covid cases on the rise after sharp decline

Covid cases in Northamptonshire schools are rising according to latest figures from Public Health bosses.

Weekly average case volumes had been high up to March 31, after which they decreased rapidly, but recent data shows that the seven-day average case totals have started to rise again, particularly in pupils.

The latest data released by Public Health Northamptonshire shows most positive tests in the last week were found in 10 to 19-year-olds, closely followed by 30 to 39-year-olds.

Despite the children returning to schools and many employees back in the workplace, the numbers of those coming forward for rapid coronavirus testing has plateaued.

Lucy Wightman, joint director of Public Health for North and West Northamptonshire Councils, said: "Across the county, the most positive tests in the last four weeks were found in 10 to 19-year olds, closely followed by 30 to 39-year olds. This is thought to be a result of more testing amongst these groups and it is good to see so many pupils doing so.

"Testing rates however have started to plateau which is of concern. Testing is the only way we can keep track of the coronavirus and contain it through self-isolation. Without it, the virus will spread silently and could take a foothold once again."

This week students at Kettering's Bishop Stopford School had been told to isolate following positive Covid tests, whilst parents at Wellingborough's Wrenn School were sent a letter yesterday and last week informing them of two Covid cases in the school community.

In the letter assistant principal, Hannah Jones, said: "We have been informed that a member of our school community has tested positive for Covid-19. This is completely unrelated to the case I informed you of on Sunday. All close contacts have been informed already."

None of the 'bubbles' have been closed and students returned to school as normal.

Ms Wightman said: "Anyone can now get regular rapid lateral flow tests without having symptoms. It’s the only way to really know that you are not infectious and to keep the people around you safe. It takes thirty minutes for a result and the more you do it, the easier it gets.

"Testing will be a part of normal life for the foreseeable future in Northamptonshire and across the nation so let’s make twice weekly testing part of our routine and get life back to normal. “I am very pleased the overall case numbers of Covid-19 across the county continue to drop but we must continue to practice Covid-safe actions if we are to push case rates even further down."