500 youngsters test positive for Covid in Walsall

Rates amongst school-aged children are much higher than the rest of the population, as health bosses urge families and schools to take precautions to stop the spread.

According to statistics, more than 1,300 people tested positive in Walsall in the seven-day period up to October 22 – almost 12 per cent more than the previous week. Of those, more than 540 of those were in the 0-19-year-old age bracket.

The overall case rate is 446.4 per 100,000 population but the figures in school-aged children are much higher – 671.5 per 100,000 in five to nine year olds, 1304.3 in 10-14 year olds and 768.9 in 15-19 year olds.

Stephen Gunther, director of public health at Walsall Council, said: “Overall, Covid-19 infections in Walsall continue to rise with the number of people testing positive still highest in school aged children and young people.

“Walsall’s educational settings have also seen positive cases of Covid-19 – this situation changes on a daily basis and cases are closely monitored by the public health team.

“The first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine is now available for young people, aged 12-15 (15,961) in Walsall. The vaccination programme has already started in several Walsall schools and the offer for this cohort has been expanded.

"This will allow parents/guardians of children aged 12-15 years to access an out-of-school appointment. You can now can book a Covid-19 vaccination appointment for your child at the Saddlers Vaccination Centre Walsall, WS2 9NW.

"This offer is in parallel with the in-school vaccination programme. It means faster vaccination for a larger proportion of young people and those wishing to take up the offer.

“On October 14, Walsall education settings were advised to reintroduce Covid-Secure measures, to help reduce the rising cases of Covid-19.

“In primary and special schools, advisory measures included reintroducing class bubbles, staggering lunch breaks, start and finish times and moving all non-essential events online.

“Secondary and further education settings, including colleges are advised to reintroduce face coverings for all school staff and pupils aged 12-plus in communal areas unless exempt, consideration of a return to year-group bubbles, social distancing for teaching staff, and consider Covid management for PE classes."