The number of Covid-19 infections detected in Lambeth has more than doubled in just two weeks, the council said today (13 December.
The number of people in hospital with Covid-19 has also risen, as has the number of local people in intensive care.
There is a local infection rate of 662 people infected and 137 people in hospital per 100,000.
Yesterday, Sunday, alone, 432 people in the borough tested positive according to the government’s Covid website. More than 50,000 people in Lambeth in total have now tested positive.
Government figures also show that Covid infections in the borough are occurring at a much higher rate and increasing more rapidly among people under 60 compared to people over 60,
“Covid-19 infections rates in Lambeth are now surging, in part driven by the new Omnicon variant, meaning we must all work together to keep Lambeth safe,” the council said.
“It is important residents get vaccinated as soon as possible, get the booster if already vaccinated and that we all follow restrictions put in place to stop the spread.
“The risk that our NHS services will be overwhelmed and that more people will lose their lives has risen as a result.
“Residents who want their questions answered about the vaccine can use the borough’s online Q&A about getting vaccinated.
Cllr Jim Dickson, Lambeth council’s joint cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It is now clear Covid-19 again presents a deadly challenge.
“We know some in our borough have felt hesitant about getting vaccinated, but the situation is now grave, and I would strongly encourage those with concerns to find out more so their minds can be put at ease.
“Covid-19 presents a greater risk to older people and the vulnerable.
“By getting vaccinated and coming forward for the booster you are helping protect your older relatives and friends.
“The vaccines aren’t perfect, but they are the best tool we have to protect our loved ones.”
Lambeth vaccination sites are running first vaccinations, second vaccinations and booster walk-in clinics.
Venues include the council’s civic centre in Brixton, Montgomery Hall in Kennington and Streatham Place Surgery in Streatham.
No proof of address, NHS number or immigration status are required to get a vaccination.
Several local pharmacies are extending their operating hours to support the push, while Lambeth’s health and wellbeing bus, offering both flu and Covid-19 vaccinations is out all week.
For details visit NHS South East London CCG’s website or the NHS Grab-A-Jab website.
The council said its Covid wardens are out across the borough helping businesses to follow restrictions.
Local contact tracing teams have been activated and volunteer vaccinators are being recruited.
Current government restrictions, are:
- Face coverings are required by law in most indoor settings
- People should work from home if able
- Certain venues and events must check that visitors over 18 are fully vaccinated, have proof of a negative test in the last 48 hours, or have an exemption.
- From tomorrow (14 December) fully vaccinated contacts of someone with Covid-19 should do daily lateral flow tests for seven days.
- Anyone who is a contact and not fully vaccinated will need to self-isolate for 10 days. More information on the government website.
Cllr Dickson said: “We thank our residents for contributing to this emergency push at what is a difficult time for us all by following these restrictions and coming forward for vaccinations and booster jabs.
“Please work with us to support those who have questions about the jab get the answers they need to come forward.
“It could be a matter of life or death.”
