Following the news that the UK saw almost 3,000 new Coronavirus cases across the UK just yesterday, the highest in three months, it’s now been confirmed that Leeds has recorded the highest number of cases since April, with 92 cases confirmed in just one day.
Last week it was reported that Leeds would now be on the government’s watch list following a steady increase in the infection rate across a number of weeks, which could result in a local lockdown – similar to those imposed on Bradford, Kirklees and Calderdale just last month.
Recording a total of 330 cases in the past seven days, Leeds council has urged residents to stay safe and continue social distancing – in a bid to keep the infection rate under control to avoid any tightened restrictions.
Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council and chair of the city’s Outbreak Control Board, said: “We have been working tirelessly with our partners and communities, doing everything within our power to keep the spread of this virus under control and to ensure Leeds stays open.
“However, we can’t accomplish that alone and this rise in infection rates means that inevitably, our window of opportunity is shrinking by the day and the city is rapidly approaching a tipping point.
“We completely understand that these past six months have put a tremendous strain on everyone in Leeds and that being able to get out, socialise and enjoy ourselves has provided a massive lift.
“But it is absolutely crucial that if we want to continue to do that, we all do it sensibly and responsibly and follow the latest guidance which is there to keep us all safe.”
Mariana Pexton, chief corporate support officer for the council, has also claimed that restrictions may need to be put in place to restrict people’s movement following clusters in both Kirkstall and Harehills – with councillors adding that they feel young people could be to blame for the spread of the virus. Health Secretary Matt Hancock also made this claim as cases across the country rose over the weekend, admitting he was “concerned” about the rise and that the new cases we predominantly among younger people.
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