Coronavirus cases have more than doubled across Dorset over the last week.

Public Health Dorset reports there are 42 confirmed cases in the last seven days in the Dorset Council area, compared to 14 on June 4, and 74 in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area, compared to 34 on June 4.

The seven-day case rate per 100,000 of the population in the Dorset Council area is 11.1, compared to 3.7 on June 4, and 18.7 in the BCP Council area, compared to 8.6 on June 4.

There is currently one Covid-19 patient in hospital in Dorset, compared to four on June 4.

A spokesman for Public Health Dorset said: "In line with the national picture, we have started to see case rates increase in the Dorset Council and the BCP Council area.

"Case rates remain lower than many other areas of England, but rates for both areas have more than doubled over the last week. The average for the South West is 18.3 per 100,000, BCP Council is at a similar level at 18.7 and Dorset Council is below this at 11.1. Both areas are much lower than the England average of 50.3.

"Hospitalisations due to Covid-19 remain low across Dorset, with just one patient currently in hospital with Covid-19. There have been no further deaths within 28 days of a positive test result.

"As cases start to increase, this is a reminder that we are still living with Covid-19 and we must continue to protect ourselves and each other. Please keep playing your part by following the hands, face, space rules and remembering the importance of fresh air by meeting others outdoors wherever possible and keeping windows and doors open when you are meeting indoors.

"Book your vaccination appointments when it's your turn and make sure you get both doses. Continue to take part in regular rapid testing, and stay vigilant for any symptoms of Covid-19. Even if they are mild, book a PCR test and self-isolate whilst you wait for the result."

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