A director of public health has urged young people to follow Covid guidelines after a spate of cases.

Alistair Hill, the health chief on Brighton and Hove City Council, said some new cases in the city are linked to holidays abroad, especially groups of returning travellers in their 20s.

He said: “After months of lockdown it is understandable that young adults are keen to go out and about while the guidelines are relaxed.

“While young adults are taking part active roles in our community, such as working, volunteering and socialising, they are much more likely to be carrying the virus without realising it.”

The rate of infection in Brighton and Hove now stands at 297 cases per 100,000 people, far lower than the England average of 509.

However, Mr Hill said we must do what we can to “avoid another high rise in local cases”.

The highest number of coronavirus cases confirmed in one day in the city was 67 – between April 7 and 8.

The recent spike saw six cases confirmed in one day – Tuesday last week.

Mr Hill said: “We have recently seen a rise in weekly Covid-19 cases nationally.

“In Brighton and Hove, we have seen a small rise although we are still below the national average for the rate of transmission.

“I am asking everyone to continue to take simple actions to help keep those who are more at risk from Covid-19 as safe as possible.

We know that the elderly are more likely to experience Covid-19 in a severe and potentially life threatening way.

“In contrast, we know young adults are much more likely to experience mild symptoms of Covid-19 or show no symptoms at all while positive with the virus.”

Mr Hill said everyone must:

l Maintain social distancing guidelines

l Maintain good hygiene with frequent handwashing

l Wear face coverings where required and/or appropriate unless exempt to do so

l If you are returning from holiday abroad from an affected country, follow government guidance

l Self-isolate for 14 days on return

l Don’t have any visitors, even family or friends

l Get tested if you develop symptoms.

Mr Hill added: “You only need to get tested if you have symptoms.

“The most important action for people to take is to self-isolate and not go out if you have been to affected area or have symptoms.

“We need everyone to follow the guidance to protect others.

“Brighton and Hove City Council with Public Health England and the NHS continue to monitor the situation locally.

“I thank you on behalf of all my colleagues for helping to prevent spreading Covid-19.”