Youngsters most affected by new COVID infections

Cases in primary school and early secondary school age children are among the highest in the south-east

Young people in Oxfordshire are the age group currently most affected by new COVID infections.  Cases in 5 to 9 year olds doubled in the seven days up to 21 January with a big increase also evident in 10 to 14 year olds.

People of parental age in their 30s and 40s also have higher case rates than other groups.

In the Banbury FM area new infections rose to 1,237 after a 35% decrease in cases during the previous week.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “Our cases in primary school and early secondary school age children in Oxfordshire are among the highest in the south east of England.

“With Plan B restrictions being eased on 27 January, people will naturally want to relax and be less guarded. That’s understandable after all we’ve been through this last two years. However, it’s worth people knowing that cases are still at a really high level and factor this into their plans as they go about their daily lives.

“This includes continuing to take sensible precautions to help slow the spread of the virus. For instance from January 27 it is no longer a requirement to wear facemasks in indoor public spaces but it might often be a wise judgement to do so. It’s also important to keep testing so that you know if you have the virus and should isolate to avoid passing it on to others.

“Ventilating indoor spaces, washing hands regularly and all of the other sound advice that has applied throughout the pandemic is still important. For those who have not yet had the booster jab, we would encourage you to come forward as soon as possible if you are eligible.”

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Published: 27/01/2022 11:02am by Banbury FM Newsteam

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