Covid-19 Case Rise Leaves Spelthorne As an Official ‘Area of Concern’

Published on: 18 Sep, 2020
Updated on: 30 Sep, 2020

Due to a continued rise in local Covid-19 cases, Spelthorne borough, by Heathrow Airport, is now officially a government-designated “area of concern”, the county council has said.

The changed status does not affect the rest of Surrey, including Staines-upon-Thames, Ashford, Stanwell, Shepperton, Sunbury-on-Thames, Halliford and all surrounding areas.

At this stage, an “area of concern” does not mean a local lockdown or closures, but does require residents to be extra vigilant and follow government guidelines to stop the spread.

Spelthorne had 39 new cases reported in the week ending September 14 and the highest 7-day infection rate in the county, 40 per 100,000 of population, far higher than the next borough Runnymede. Guildford, by contrast, was near the bottom of the county list with only 11 cases per 100k.

But since Monday (September 14), Spelthorne has had 13 new cases and Guildford only two fewer, 11.

Surrey County Council has reissued the current advice:

Follow the rule of six – As of Monday, September 14, to meet in groups of more than six is illegal, indoors and outdoors;
Hands – Wash frequently for more than 20 seconds, said to be the best way of stopping the spread;
Face – Wear face coverings on public transport and in shops unless you are exempt; and
Space – Stay two metres away from anyone not in your household or bubble.

Ruth Hutchinson, Surrey director of public health, said: “We call on residents across Spelthorne to support us. The borough now has the highest rates of coronavirus in the South-east.

“I know people have made a huge effort over the past few months to control the spread, but it’s essential we don’t get complacent now. Everyone needs to redouble their efforts before the situation gets worse.

“The government is monitoring the situation closely. This means we are on the brink of more serious interventions. We have to all work together and do everything we can to avoid further restrictions in the area.”

If you have coronavirus symptoms, a persistent cough, high fever, or a change in smell or taste, you should book a test by calling 119 or by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus. Slots are available the evening before for morning appointments, and in the morning for afternoon appointments.

See also: Local Covid-19 Stats and

Surrey’s Local Outbreak Control Plan: https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/people-and-community/emergency-planning-and-community-safety/coronavirus/testing