Royal Borough statistics

Cases during the past few weeks have been rising, but has now fallen to 594.3 per 100,000. However, this is still above both the South East and England averages.

Winter pressures are beginning to impact Frimley Health Foundation Trust (FHFT) hospitals as the overall number of patients for all conditions are increasing. In terms of Covid, as of 23 November there were 67 patients with Covid in FHFT hospitals and eight on mechanical ventilation. There has sadly also been one death. The borough saw 905 new Covid cases in the week up to 25 November.

Cases are highest in ages 5 to 14 and 44 to 49, although rates among all ages up to 60+ remain worrying.

Testing with LFTs across the Royal Borough is also falling. Regular testing is key. It finds those asymptomatic cases.

For the latest Covid information in the Royal Borough - including case rates among age groups, ward breakdowns, hospital data and vaccinations - visit the Berkshire Public Health website and see the weekly report in the information centre.
What a difference a week makes

Omicron was an unknown entity a week ago. Until we learn more about it, our personal actions are similar to that of the Delta variant:
  • Get vaccinated - it's NEVER too late to get your first or second jab
  • Wear a mask (unless you're exempt) where it's mandatory
  • Test regularly - before visiting busy places/events and vulnerable friends or family
  • Have healthy hand hygiene
  • Meet-up in well ventilated places. Opening a window for just ten minutes makes a difference

As you know, face masks are again required in shops and on public transport. This also includes transport hubs, shopping centres, banks, estate agents, vets, hair and nail salons, and in taxis. It doesn't apply to cinemas, theatres, music venues, gyms, places of worship or hospitality, although you can still use a mask if you feel safer.

The BMJ has published a report of the effectiveness of public health measures during the pandemic focusing on masks, handwashing and social distancing. The report says, for example, that wearing a mask can reduce the incidence of Covid by 53% and stresses their importance when used alongside vaccines.
Vaccinations and boosters

83% of the borough’s population has now had both jabs, but that still leaves a sizeable number completely unprotected.

As of 21 November, 52% of the borough's population aged 50+ had received three doses.

The government's booster programme is also being expanded during the next two months in a bid to slow the Omicron variant:
  • Everyone over 18 to be offered a booster
  • Boosters to be given at least three months after the second dose
  • 12-15 year-olds to be offered a second dose, at least 12 weeks after the first
  • Severely immunosuppressed people to be offered a fourth dose

The boosters will continue to be offered in priority age order to protect those most at risk. Wait until the NHS contacts you to book yours on the online National Booking System. When you're eligible, you may also be able to use a local walk-in site or pharmacy, but please see the Frimley Health and Care website as arrangements differ.
Mobile PCR testing

The NHS Covid PCR testing unit will be rolling into Windsor during December.

It’s due to stationed at Windsor Coach Park, 2 Alma Road, Windsor, SL4 3HU, every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am to 3pm.

PCR tests are for when you're showing Covid symptoms, of if you've had a positive or void LFT result.

To use the mobile PCR unit, please book online in advance. 
Assisted LFT during Christmas

If you need help taking a lateral flow test (LFT) at Braywick Leisure Centre during the festive period, please note the change in opening hours for this service:
  • Monday 27 Dec - 9am to midday
  • Tuesday 28 Dec - closed 
  • Thursday 30 Dec - 9am to midday 
  • Monday 3 Jan - closed

You can still collect LFTs, to use at home, from the receptions at all our leisure centres during Christmas. The centres' opening hours are posted on the Covid section of our website.
PCR test scam

Have you seen the above scam PCR post on social media?

Don't worry, East Berkshire Public Health has reported it. However, it may still pop up for a while so just ignore it. There have also been reports of people querying it at Covid testing sites.

Remember, if you believe you've been scammed online report it to Action Fraud.
All the latest at your fingertips

Keep up to date with all the Royal Borough's non COVID-19 news in our other weekly e-newsletter. You can sign up for it here and unsubscribe at any time. You're in control.
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