Wiltshire Covid case rate one of the highest in the UK

In the seven days leading up to October 20, the case rate in Wiltshire was at 926.9 per 100,000 people compared to the national average of 486.9 for this period according to government figures.

Between October 13 and October 20, 4672 cases were recorded in Wiltshire which is an increase of 1639 cases (54.4%) from the previous week's Covid round-up.

There are small areas in Wales where the case rate is higher (Caerphilly, Torfaen, and Neath Port Talbot), each with far fewer cases, and surrounding areas such as Swindon and Bath have some of the highest rates in the UK. 

These can be noted on the image of the Covid case map below from the government coronavirus dashboard, shown in purple.

This map shows 7-day case rate per 100,000 people to the period ending October 20. Source: Government Coronavirus Tracker. OpenMapTiles, OpenStreetMap Contributors

The Wiltshire areas with the highest number of new cases were Tidworth & Ludgershall (125), Ramsbury, Ogbournes & Avebury (102), and Cricklade & Ashton Keynes (97). 

The areas with the highest total number of current cases were Tidworth & Ludgershall (233), Westbury (176) and Ramsbury, Ogbournes & Avebury (150).

If we look at case rates which take into account the population size in each area by calculating figures per 100,000 people, Cricklade & Ashton Keynes has the highest case rate at 1924.5. 

There were only six areas out of 63 which had below average case rates, the best being Durrington & Bulford with a case rate of 358.3, Larkhill, Shrewton & Bulford Camp (389.6), and Salisbury Cathedral & Harnham (438.9).

You can check the new and total cases in your local area using the interactive graph below.

Wiltshire Council sent out a caution to locals for Halloween and half-term.

Director of Public Health for Wiltshire Kate Blackburn said: “We know life feels like it’s back to normal but we need to continue to be aware that COVID-19 is spreading in the county at the moment much more than we would like. 

“We don’t begrudge anyone looking forward to half-term and Halloween, as a lot of activities have been put on hold over the last year and a half, and we know how much they mean to people. 

“All we’d ask is that people make informed choices based on their own individual circumstances and continue to take measures to keep each other safe. 

“Regular hand washing and keeping windows open are simple but really effective ways to prevent a spread of the virus. 

“Wearing masks is really fun at Halloween, but we’d advise that face coverings are worn at other times too, particularly in busy indoor settings such as shops. 

“Our priority is to protect people’s health and our health services, and if we all support each other and look out for one another then that will help us overcome the challenges we face this winter.

“As ever, we thank everyone for their continued support.”

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