Harrow Council leader Graham Henson has issued a message to Harrow residents as covid-19 cases continue to rise in borough and across London.
The message was posted before today’s figures which shows a rise of 16,504 cases and 467 deaths in England alone.
In a message posted on MyHarrow, Council Leader Graham Henson said: “Covid is spreading rapidly through Harrow which is why we, along with the rest of London, are moving into Tier 3.
“Today in Harrow our figures are 253 per 100,000. Nationally it is 181.
“This is a debilitating virus that can and does kill people and puts enormous pressure on our overstretched NHS.
“Worryingly we are now seeing rises across all ages, and not just in young people, but I am most concerned about the rises amongst the over 60s who are most at risk of being hospitalised and dying of the virus.
“Cases are expected to double every seven days – we must all take urgent measures to protect ourselves, loved ones and the NHS.
“I urge you to reconsider plans that you may have made for next week, particularly if this involved spending time indoors with older more vulnerable members of your family.
“This is going to be very tough for all of us but increasing restrictions is the only available option to stop the spread of the virius and save lives. We are also looking to increase mass target testing.
“Additional restrictions will be particularly tough for people working in the hospitality industry, cultural sector and offices who have worked so hard to make their places Covid-19 safe, and for people struggling on low incomes.
“We will work with our residents, businesses and communities to try to mitigate the worst impact of Covid-19, and with the Government to ensure that the maximum support is made available to them.
“We will continue to keep you informed and update you. The next few weeks will be difficult and if you are struggling, help is available on our website or phone 020 8901 2698.
“For now, please continue to follow the guidance washing your hands regularly, wearing a face covering particularly in crowded spaces and creating space.
“If you’re feeling unwell with just one of the symptoms of Covid, a new continuous cough, high temperature, or a loss of or change to taste or smell, it’s vital that you get tested. To book a test visit nhs.uk/coronavirus or call 119. If you do test positive, please follow the rules and self-isolate for 10 days.
“Please follow the Tier 3 restrictions outlined in the article below. I am also hosting a Covid Community Meeting tonight – more details in this newsletter.
“I wish you all well, urge you to keep in touch with friends and family via phone or video calls and thank you for doing your bit to help Harrow.
“Please stay safe and take every precaution to do so.”
