Bedford Borough Council have issued this statement:-

Urgent Help Sought To Tackle Rising Infection Rate

With cases of Covid-19 rising across Bedford Borough, Bedford Borough Council is calling on everyone to work together, play their part, and help reduce the spread of the infection.

In the last week up to the 4th October there have been 118 cases of coronavirus in Bedford Borough. This is an increase of 46 on the week before, and the latest figures show that cases are continuing to rise.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said “I’d like to thank everyone for all their hard work and for the sacrifices made to reduce the spread of the virus. With local figures rising significantly we all need to work together to stop the spread of the virus and protect our family, our friends and our community.
“We know the virus is spreading when we come in to contact with others. So we’re asking everyone to limit contact with those they don’t live with or aren’t in their support bubble. If you do meet up with others remember this shouldn’t be in a group of more than six and it is safer to meet outside.”

Cllr Louise Jackson, Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Wellbeing added: “I know this will be difficult for us all, but we can’t become complacent as we head into winter. Cases are rising and we need to take action now to stop the virus.
“We know the majority of people have been following the advice but we now need everyone to do their bit to protect each other. We all need to stick to the Hands, Face, Space advice; wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds; wear a face covering and stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with.
“We’ve shown before that we can come together and reduce the spread of Covid-19, saving lives and taking pressure off the NHS. If we all follow the rules we will get the infection rate down, but we have to work together on this and act now.”

Anyone displaying symptoms should stay at home and only leave the house to get tested. Testing remains available locally for anyone displaying symptoms; high temperature, new persistent cough, loss of taste or smell. To book a test visit nhs.uk/coronavirus or call 119.