Covid infection rates continue to increase across Dorset but the number of people in hospital has decreased.

Public Health Dorset reports that there are 2,279 cases in the last seven days in the Dorset Council area, compared to 2,168 on December 3, and 2,712 in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area, compared to 2,418 on December 3.

The seven-day case rate per 100,000 of the population in the Dorset Council area in 600.1, compared to 570.8 on December 3, and 683.1 in the BCP Council area, compared to 609.1 on December 3.

There are currently 79 people with Covid-19 in Dorset hospital beds, compared to 103 on December 3.

A spokesman for Public Health Dorset said: "Covid-19 infection rates have continued to increase over the past week in Dorset Council and BCP Council. This follows an upward trend across the South West region and England, but both council areas remain above the regional and national averages.

"The number of people in hospital in Dorset with Covid-19 has decreased to 79, but we will continue to monitor the trend over time as we know there can be fluctuations due to admissions and discharges. We have continued to see a number of deaths related Covid-19.

"Due to the emergence of the Omicron variant, the Prime Minister announced this week that England will move to Plan B Covid measures. This incudes the re-introduction of face coverings in most indoor settings, work from home guidance and the introduction of Covid passes for nightclubs and settings where large crowds gather. Read more about the changes.

"Locally, we are asking everyone to consider the risks and do what they can to reduce transmission of Covid-19. The vaccination gives you good protection against serious illness, but we know that it doesn't always stop you from catching or spreading the virus, so it's important to keep taking other measures. Take a rapid lateral flow test regularly, especially if you're meeting others. Get plenty of fresh air by meeting outdoors or keeping doors and windows open. Wear a face covering in indoor spaces, making sure it covers your mouth and your nose.

"If we all play our part now in stopping the spread, we can help prevent the need for further restrictions."

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