CASES of Omicron have tripled in the North East according to recent figures – this is what North East health bosses had to say about the news.

Last week on December 15, the government reported 385 cases of Omicron in the North East of England.

However, according to the most recent data issued by the UK Health Secretary Agency, the number of Omicron cases in.

Read more: Cases of Omicron more than TRIPLE in North East in the latest Covid figures

Overall the number of cases reported in England have reached 34,473 with an almost 12,000 increase from the previous report.

Gateshead Council

Gateshead Council’s Director of Public Health Alice Wiseman, said: “The rate at which cases are rising is extremely concerning, particularly as it comes at a time when NHS services are already under huge pressure.

“Vaccination is our best defence and I’d urge anyone who hasn’t already had their first, second or booster vaccine to make an appointment or find a walk-in centre as soon as possible.

After last year, many of us are looking forward to Christmas with our friends and family even more than usual.

“Nobody wants to stop that from happening, but we’re now in a position that’s not about following rules – it’s about doing the right thing.

“The more people you come into contact with, the higher the risk of catching Covid and passing it on to your loved ones, so please think carefully about your plans and prioritise the social events that really matter to you.

“Use lateral flow testing kits before and after meeting others and don’t forget the basics – hands, face, space and fresh air.”

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More guidance and information can be found on the Gateshead website: www.gateshead.gov.uk/protect-christmas

Darlington Borough Council

Darlington Borough Council’s Director of Public health Penny Spring, said the council is “urging” their residents to slow down the spread of Omicron by continuing to get vaccinated, test regularly, and adhere to national Covid restrictions.

She said: “We are proud to be able to continue our click and community testing scheme from multiple sites across the town, making free kits of 14 rapid tests available to take at home before heading to large events and meeting others over the holiday period.

 “We are also supporting the NHS vaccination programme and I would encourage everyone eligible to get their first, second or booster dose as soon as possible.

“Not only is being fully vaccinated the best way to protect yourself and loved ones, but it also remains our best defence against further restrictions and lockdowns.”

Durham County Council

Amanda Healy, Director of Public Health for County Durham, said that the quick rise in cases in the North East reflects what is happening at both a regional and national level.

She added: “We know the Omicron variant is very transmissible and, as such, the number of confirmed cases continues to increase at a quick rate.

“Our message remains the same to reduce the spread of the virus. The Covid-19 vaccine is the strongest defence against all variants, so we urge everyone to get their first, second or booster dose as soon as possible.

“Being fully vaccinated not only helps protect you from becoming seriously ill but also helps protect others, including the most vulnerable.

“We continue to encourage people to reduce mixing and take further precautions including wearing face coverings in indoor settings, practicing social distancing, and washing hands thoroughly and regularly.

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“Take every effort to meet people outdoors wherever possible and ventilate rooms when meeting indoors.

“PCR and Lateral Flow Device tests are also key to helping prevent transmission. If you think you have symptoms of Covid-19, book a PCR test and isolate.

“Taking regular Lateral Flow tests will also help detect the virus even if you are not showing symptoms.

“We have worked incredibly hard already to prevent the spread of other coronavirus variants.

“Thank you for all your efforts so far and let’s continue this new effort to protect ourselves, our loved ones and those who may be more vulnerable.”

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