Infection rates and Covid hospital admissions have risen across the county since last week.

Public Health Dorset reports that there are 2,231 confirmed cases in the last seven days in the Dorset Council area, compared to 1,994 on November 19, and 2,343 in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area, compared to 2,283 on November 19.

The seven-day case rate per 100,000 of the population in the Dorset Council area is 587.4, compared to 525.0 on November 19, and 593.0 in the BCP Council area, compared to 575.1 on November 19.

There are currently 95 people with Covid-19 in Dorset hospital beds, compared to 75 on November 19.

A spokesman for Public Health Dorset said: "Infection rates across the county have risen again since last week. Rates in both Dorset Council and BCP Council are higher than the average for the South West region, and are significantly higher than England's average case rate.

"Covid-related hospital admissions have also continued to rise, there are now 95 people in Dorset hospitals with Covid-19 compared to 75 in last week's update. We continue to see a number of Covid-related deaths each week.

"We know that as we head into the winter months we face a challenging period, so anything we can do now to reduce transmission of Covid-19 can make a big difference.

"Infection rates remain highest amongst school-aged children, which is why we've recommended additional measures for schools to consider and implement since half term, including enhanced testing, reduced mixing and wearing face coverings. But rates are high amongst all ages and with the amount of cases we are seeing locally, it's important to recognise that there is an increased risk from Covid-19 at the moment.

"You're much more likely to come into contact with someone who has Covid-19, so the new advice on lateral flow tests is to take one before periods of higher risk. That might be going to an event or gathering or visiting someone who is more vulnerable to Covid-19, but as we all start to socialise more during the festive period, it's also sensible to take a test before meeting family and friends.

"Wearing a mask indoors or in crowded spaces and ensuring you have plenty of fresh air – either by meeting outdoors or keeping doors and windows open when indoors – remain key to preventing the spread of the virus.

"We continue to encourage anyone eligible to take up the offer of the COVID-19 vaccine, including the booster, as this is the best way to protect yourself from serious illness caused by the virus."

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