Brummies need to be 'relentless' to control soaring Covid-19 infection spread - council leader
A 'worrying rise' in Coronavirus infection rate across Birmingham now needs everyone to play their part to drive it down and save lives, Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward warns
by Ben Perrin, https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/authors/ben-perrin/The people of Birmingham need to be "relentless in our efforts to control the spread" of the coronavirus and save lives, a council chief has warned.
Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward said there had been a "worrying rise" in the rate of infections after figures, for the seven days to September 8, showed a rise of 1,000 new cases in the city, with a rate of 90 per 100,000 people.
The new "Rule of Six" has been brought in across the nation and Birmingham itself faces a local lockdown from Tuesday, September 15.
Birmingham residents will not be able to mix with any other households indoors or in private gardens, except for those in a support bubble.
Taking to Twitter, Coun Ward urged people to do their bit to help drive down the Covid-19 infection rate.
"These changes have been prompted by a very worrying rise in the rate of infection across the city and it's vital we now all play our part to drive the rate back down," he said.
"I know this is difficult particularly when we have got used to seeing friends and family, but it is vital we stick to these rules and protect each other.
"People across Birmingham have sacrificed so much in the last six months and the city has pulled together at the most challenging of times.
"But the virus has not gone away, it has not weakened, in fact it is relentless and we must be relentless in our efforts to control the spread.
"So please follow the new rules to protect yourself, your loved ones, friends and colleagues.
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"In addition, continue to wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and if you feel unwell get a test.
"If we all play our part, we can drive the Coronavirus infection rates back down in Birmingham and save lives."