COVID-19: Act now to avoid a local lockdown
The areas seeing some of the biggest rises are wards in the south of the borough and a few wards in the north and east. Some people are at greater risk of more serious ill health and dying as a result of COVID-19. These include people who have diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and who are overweight. It is, however, important that everyone takes precautions.
Last week, our rate per 100,000 was 11.2, but this has now increased to 31.9 per 100,000. From Monday, 14 September, the Government has said that residents must not meet people from other households in groups of more than six.
This will apply indoors and outdoors, including private homes. Pubs, restaurants, shops, and other venues will remain open, but people can only attend in groups of up to six. Places of worship may remain open but with a limit of six people attending per group.
Gladys Xavier, Director of Public Health, said: "We have to take these figures seriously and ensure that we don't end up in lockdown as we've seen in other regions in the county.
"Please remember the importance of maintaining distance, washing, or sanitising hands regularly, wearing a face mask where needed, and getting a test if you have symptoms. Please also avoid visiting elderly or vulnerable relatives if you're feeling unwell."
Leader of Redbridge Council, Councillor Jas Athwal, said: "This is worrying news, the infection rate is going up in our borough putting local people at risk. We must act now and do everything we can to avoid a local lockdown and keep our friends, family members, and neighbours safe.
"We're working with the Government and our partners to bring down the number of cases of this deadly virus. The best way to do that is limit the number of contacts people have, follow the latest government guidelines, and not mix in groups of more than six people."
To book a test, please Call 119, or book a test online, or visit our walk-in centre in Mildmay car park - IG1 1HW, which is open every day if you have any Coronavirus symptoms. These include a high temperature, new continuous cough, or a loss or change in your sense of taste and smell.
If you develop symptoms, everyone in your household will also be required to self-isolate. Further information about self-isolation is available on the NHS website.
If you have been identified as a close contact of a confirmed case, you will need to complete your 14-day isolation period, even if you test negative. There is detailed guidance on the NHS website.
