Two more deaths as covid cases top 1,000

Thursday 22 December 2022

The number of known covid cases in Jersey has topped 1,000 for the first time in months and two more islanders are confirmed to have died.

According to the latest data released by Government, the number of recorded cases now stands at 1,047.

There are 26 people with the virus in hospital, and 23 in care homes.

Since last Thursday (15 December), there have been 814 new cases and 636 recoveries.

Two islanders were also confirmed to have died last week. Confirming that another two had sadly passed away since then, the Government said its "condolences and thoughts are with family and friends".

There are currently 26 active cases in the hospital, 23 in care homes and 1047 in the island. Since 15/12, there have been 814 new cases & 636 have recovered.

Today's figures include the registered deaths of 2 Islanders. Our condolences and thoughts are with family and friends. pic.twitter.com/cMGSAii92K

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) December 22, 2022

It's the first time in nearly six months that the number of known cases has exceeded 1,000 – the last time was in July, when there were 1,503.

It comes as flu, scarlet fever and RSV are also surging in the island. Public Health Director Peter Bradley that while it is "usual" to see a rise in viruses over the winter, it was "unusual to see them all at the same time".

He added that islanders' reduced social interactions due to the pandemic may have played a part in compromising their immunity.

ADVICE...

To minimise the risk of infection over the Christmas holidays, the Government is encouraging islanders to:

• stay home if they feel unwell and get a PCR test if experiencing covid symptoms;

• get vaccinated against covid and flu;

• keep the air fresh and open windows, particularly when in crowded settings; and 

• do a lateral flow test (LFT) before visiting vulnerable people and wear a mask in health and care settings, but do not visit if feeling unwell.