Leeds Council releases statement as city's weekly coronavirus infection rate doubles

Leeds had a rate of 12.7 new cases per 100,000 people in the seven days to July 30, compared to a rate of 5.1 in the previous seven days to July 23.

It's the sixth highest weekly infection rate in Yorkshire and comes after stricter lockdown measures were introduced to Bradford, Calderdale and Kirklees.

Bradford has the third highest Covid-19 infection rate in the country - 53.4 - and the rate is rising.

The new restrictions do not apply to Leeds.

A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said: “Locally, our seven day infection rates have remained reasonably consistent through most of July, with the current seven day average standing at 8.7 cases per 100,000 people.

“However, we are anticipating a rise in the coming days due to an increase in cases noted within Leeds and the introduction of two mobile testing sites.

“With this in mind, it’s important that everyone stays safe, keeps social distance from others; wash your hands regularly, wear a mask as regulated; and gets a test if you have symptoms so that together, we can keep the number of cases in Leeds to a minimum.

“The changes to restrictions in parts of West Yorkshire announced by the government last week do not include Leeds and there are currently no changes to the guidance for those living and working in the city.

“However, we would still urge anyone travelling in and around West Yorkshire to take extra care and stay safe by keeping up-to-date with the latest information and advice at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus”.

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