Number of coronavirus cases on rise in Oxfordshire - residents urged to follow guidance

The increase in cases is largely contained to Oxford city, where the number of new cases has risen approximately threefold to 31 over the most recent week up to 24 July. The majority of these new cases are in East Oxford.

Local increases are to be expected as we ease out of lockdown, particularly in densely populated urban areas. This is consistent with the picture across other parts of the country, and Oxford is no exception.

Eid Al-Adha and fairs

But with more events and gatherings set to take place over the coming weeks, such as Eid celebrations and a range of fairs across Oxfordshire, the Director of Public Health Ansaf Azhar is keen to stress the need for everyone to maintain social distancing and stay alert.

Director of Public Health Ansaf Azhar: “It is up to each of us to stop the virus spreading - our safety is literally in our own hands.

"Make sure you wash your hands regularly, avoid busy gatherings, keep your distance and wear a face covering where appropriate. And if you have any coronavirus symptoms, you must self-isolate immediately and call 119 to book a test.

“We have seen other towns, such as Oldham and Northampton, put local control measures in place when faced with a spike in cases, such as limiting the number of people who can meet. We are not yet in this position. But we are monitoring the situation very closely and we will put measures in place if the number of new cases continues to rise.

“We have clear systems in place through our Local Outbreak Plans to manage any local transmission hotspots. However, prevention is by far the best way to manage the situation, and the public have a vital role to play in preventing local outbreaks. My advice is simple – act now to protect yourself, protect your community, and stop the spread.”

You can find out more about how to keep yourself safe and the measures in place to stop the spread of the virus at www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/stopthespread.

Further advice on celebrating Eid Al-Adha (July 30 to August 3)

Coronavirus continues to challenge many parts of daily life meaning extra measures should be taken to celebrate Eid-al-Adha safely and to keep our loved ones protected.

There are still lots of things you can do.

Groups of up to two households, which is defined as those people we live with, can meet in a home, or six people outdoors meaning that get-togethers can be arranged. To stay safe, observe strict hand hygiene and social distancing.

If you decide to visit one of the many Mosques which have opened for prayer and communal worship, follow the guidance that has been put into place and if you experience symptoms of COVID-19 (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste), isolate immediately and book a free coronavirus test by calling 119 or via nhs.uk/coronavirus