Large Rise in Coronavirus Cases in Chiswick Over Last Two Days
Increase believed to be down to lack of social distancing
Steve Curran Kelly O'Neill and giving video message at the beginning of the pandemic
Local health officials have received new data this Friday night (14 August) which shows what is being described as a large rise in the number of coronavirus cases locally with Chiswick specifically mentioned as an area where they are concentrated. The spike in the numbers has occurred over the previous two days.
Kelly O’Neill, Director of Public Health at Hounslow Council, said, “The spread of cases suggests it’s due to wider family and friend groups meeting and not maintaining social distancing.
“We should not forget how awful the situation was for many of our residents earlier this year. More than 230 people lost their lives and thousands of others became seriously ill, with many still feeling the impact today. Coronavirus is still lethal. Lives are still at risk.
“We need everyone to keep their distance from people who do not live in their home. Stay 2 metres away from them at all times where possible.”
Other areas of the borough showing increased cases are Heston, Hounslow Central/West and Cranford.
Earlier in the week borough health official revealed there had been an “infection spread” of 37 new cases tracked in the recent days.
Ms O’Neill said at the time that Heston East has been identified as the area where the most cases have been confirmed, and that the authority was working with the community to stop the virus spreading. She added that the council is also working with Public Health England to understand the situation and monitor figures.
Hounslow’s cumulative cases rose from July 30, at 411 cases per 100,000 of the population, to 429.1 per 100,000 by August 8. This is an increase of 18.1. This compares to the median of all London boroughs of 385.6 per 100,000 from July 30, to 394.3 per 100,000 by August 8 – an increase of 8.7.
In the last month from July 8 to August 10, the borough has had 105 new cases of coronavirus. The latest announcement suggests these numbers have continued to increase.
The borough is calling on support from groups and individuals to urge others that following government guidance is crucial. Residents are also being encouraged to become ‘community champions’ to share messages that will resonate in their communities.
She added: “Our priority remains protecting our most vulnerable residents and we will consider all options to halt the spread, including a local lockdown if this is needed. This is something we want to avoid at all costs, but we can only do this with the help of residents and businesses abiding by the guidance.
“People who ignore social distancing are making a choice to put themselves and others at risk. They may be fine, but the people they infect, particularly if they’re elderly or have long-term health conditions such as diabetes or heart problems, may not.”
Hounslow Council says you should continue to follow all Government advice:
• Keep your distance – 2m from others not in your household where possible
• Wash your hands, or use hand sanitiser, regularly and for at least 20 seconds, especially when you get home.
• Don’t touch your face when you’re are not in your home.
• Wear a face covering in shops and supermarkets, on public transport and when in other indoor spaces where keeping apart from others isn’t possible. Please always take a face covering with you when you leave your home in case you need to use it.
• Get a free test if you have any symptoms - a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste. Find a local site here.
• Stay at home if you have symptoms, test positive for the virus, or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive.
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August 15, 2020
