REDDITCH is still seeing a rise in the number of Covid-19 cases in the town, despite the latest lockdown.
The current rate of infection in the town is 691 per 100,000 people, while the rest of Worcestershire is seeing its numbers stabilise.
The rate of coronavirus infections across the rest of the UK is also slowing, with the R-rate for transmission being below 1 for the first time since December.
Around 80 per cent of the new cases in Redditch over the last two weeks are working age people, many of whom are not able to work from home.
These key workers are in sectors such as manufacturing, child-care, supermarkets and healthcare.
Employers are being urged to ensure staff keep to social distancing guidance at all times, including breaks and on the way to and from work.
And workers are being asked to ensure they don’t travel together unless absolutely necessary and that they don’t mix during lunch hours or on breaks.
The director of Public Health for Worcestershire, Dr. Kathryn Cobain, said: “Our key workers are vital to us all, so it’s important they are protected from Covid-19.
“We are seeing a high number of cases amongst our workforce who cannot work from home. So I am asking all employers to help encourage workers to keep to the social distancing rules, in and out of work.
“We want our key workers to be safe, so please keep to the rules.
“If someone tests positive in your household you can reduce the chance of everybody becoming unwell.
“Keep household surfaces clean and open windows where possible to help reduce the spread of the virus in your home.
“These measures can help us stay well and should bring the number of cases in Redditch down.”
Redditch Borough Council leader Matt Dormer added he has been ‘blown away’ by the community spirit in the town.
“However, as we help each other out we must make sure we are doing so safely.
“Please keep your distance, wear a face covering, don’t spend time in other people’s homes unless you are part of a support bubble and wipe down anything you pass on to a neighbour.
“As a business owner myself I know our employers are working very hard to protect staff, and I urge all workers in our key industries and services to really take care of themselves.”
