Wandsworth coronavirus cases show increase

By Sian Bayley, Local Democracy Reporter

Coronavirus rates in Wandsworth have increased this week, according to data from Public Health England.

Surveillance reports for the week July 27 to August 2 showed that in Wandsworth cases jumped from 4.3 per 100,000 to 7.7 per 100,000.

In Richmond cases also increased from 3.6 per 100,000 the week before, to 4.6 per 100,000. In Kingston, however, cases dropped from 3.4 to 1.7 per 100,000.

Over the past month coronavirus rates have fluctuated in the boroughs, but there appears to have been a slight increase in cases in Wandsworth and Richmond as lockdown measures have eased.

Between July 6 and July 12, Wandsworth had a rate of 3.7 cases per 100,000, while Richmond was at just 0.5 per 100,000.

Kingston was on 1.7 cases per 100,000.

Professor Kevin Fenton, London Regional Director for Public Health England, said the number of new coronavirus cases “is under close, active surveillance across London”, and PHE is “working closely with all local authorities to prepare for and manage any potential local clusters and outbreaks”.

He added: “Reassuringly, our epidemiological analysis shows that the overall levels of coronavirus across the city remain low, and at present, does not suggest the need for further lockdown-like measures anywhere in London and we must view these measures as a last resort.

“We call on Londoners to keep playing their part and continue to follow government advice on social distancing, self-isolation, wearing face coverings and practising good hand hygiene in order to keep coronavirus at bay in our city.

“If you have a new continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss of, or change to your sense of smell or taste, stay at home and arrange a test immediately by calling 119 or go to the NHS website.

“There are plenty of testing slots available across London every day and getting tested helps keep your local community, your borough and London as a city, a safe and healthy place to live.”