South Holland coronavirus figures show highest positive cases among middle aged and elderly
The spread of coronavirus among the South Holland population is affecting women nearly twice as much as men, according to new figures given to Spalding Today.
In total, 1,110 people from the area have tested positive since the pandemic started in March, with 123 positive cases in the seven days between October 21 and 28.
But despite the rate of positives for the area per 100,000 population being 130.9, compared to the Lincolnshire average of 139.3, South Holland is seeing a rise in cases across all age groups.
The figures provided by the Lincolnshire Outbreak Engagement Board (LOEB), made up of county and district council leaders, NHS, policing and business representatives in the county, also showed that 63 per cent of positive cases were women, compared to just 37 per cent of men.
Coun Martin Hill, LOEB chairman and leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: "We're relieved that infection rates for the county are lower than elsewhere but we're keeping a monitor on numbers because things can change pretty quickly.
"Our public health team is getting daily updates on test and trace results, the number of infections and NHS capacity locally.
"We're at a time of the year where the risk is so we're asking people to use their common sense and take precautions by washing their hands, wearing a face covering and keep your distance, particularly if you're in the vulnerable category."
Other LOEB figures for South Holland showed that 12 per cent of positive cases were among 18-25-year-old, with higher infection rates recorded in the 30-44 and over-65 age groups.
Meanwhile, the number of people from the area who have died and had COVID-19 stated on their death certificate currently stands at 59.
Coun Gary Porter, leader of South Holland District Council, said: "My single biggest advice to people, without lecturing them, is to treat every stranger as if they have COVID-19 and give them a wide berth.
"People who are vulnerable need to do as much as they can to protect themselves and the community should carry on doing what it has been to look after others.
"In the meantime, I'm hoping that we'll get a bit of extra money to alleviate the problems faced by businesses."
Tony McGinty, the county council's assistant director of public health, said: "The numbers in districts are increasing like other areas of the country and we continue to keep a close eye on the situation.
"It is important that everyone keeps to the restrictions and guidance, remembering the 'hands, face, space' messages to make sure we are minimising our risk of catching or passing on the infection."
