Covid-19: Brighton health chief warning as reduction in cases begins to slow

Alistair Hill, director of public health at Brighton and Hove City Council, said the city has "come a long way" since the virus peak at the start of the year, and urged people to abide by the rules as some restrictions are eased from next week.

The latest figures show there were 134 confirmed new cases of Covid-19 in the city in the week leading up to February 27, down from 152 the previous week.

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It means Brighton and Hove now has a weekly rate of 46.1 cases per 100,000 population - far lower than the UK average rate, at 89.2 cases per 100,000.

Alistair Hill, director of public health in Brighton and Hove

Mr Hill said: "It is always pleasing to report the number of new cases of Covid-19 in Brighton and Hove has come down again.

"We have come a long way from the peak at the start of the year. As a city we have pulled together to keep to the guidelines and drive down the rates of infection.

"But our weekly reduction is beginning to slow down now, in common with other areas in the south east.

"We will all enjoy this taste of freedom after such a long lockdown, but it is vital we do not forget the Stay at Home regulation remains in force until at least at least March 29, and many lockdown restrictions will continue until April 12."

From next week, schools and colleges will reopen, while care home residents can have one regular visitor, provided they are tested and wear Personal Protective Equipment.

People will be allowed to spend time in outdoor public places for recreation with their household, support bubble or one person from outside their household.

This is in addition to outdoor exercise, which is already permitted.

Mr Hill warned parents to limit their contact with others at school gates as pupils return to school.

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He said: "When you do go out - to take children to school for example - it remains very important to follow the hands, face, space guidelines and to limit contact with people outside your household.

"Please do not socialise with other adults at the school gates or meet up with more than one person.

A quiet street during the third national lockdown

"You should continue to work from home if possible. Meeting in groups and travelling outside your local area is still not allowed.

"If the rate of infection goes up again, this will delay the lifting of restrictions."

More than 70,000 people in Brighton and Hove have now received their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Mr Hill urged those who are invited to have the vaccine not to delay in booking their appointment.

Healthcare workers queuing for their vaccine earlier this year, during the third lockdown

He said: "The progress of the government’s four-step roadmap also depends on the success of the vaccination programme.

"More people are being invited to book a vaccination appointment as the NHS programme works through the priority groups.

"You will be contacted directly by the NHS or your GP when it is your turn. As soon as you are contacted, please do not delay booking your vaccination."