Decision details

Reasons for the Decision – To consider an update from the COVID-19 Member led Local Outbreak Control Board including:

·       The number of new cases of Covid in Staffordshire remaining high, and above the England average. Cases rates were highest in school age children, although these were falling due to schools adopting proportionate measures to limit transmission of infection, the 12-15 vaccination programme, and rising natural immunity in this age group.

·       The NHS plans to accelerate booster vaccinations for over 50s and first doses for 12-15 year olds. The NHS and social care were coping at the moment but continued to experience considerable pressure from Covid and other conditions.

·       The need for residents to continue to take sensible precautions to limit the spread of infection such as good hygiene, keeping a respectful distance, and wearing face coverings in crowded indoor places; and also continuing to get a Covid test twice weekly.

·       The Council was continuing to maintain Covid defences for the remainder of 2021/22. This included testing and contact tracing, as well as managing outbreaks and supporting the most vulnerable. These would be reviewed in line with emerging Government policy

Decision – That the report be received.