As covid cases rise to nearly 200, Government issues warning about public events and gatherings

With the number of active cases of Covid 19 rising once again the Government has warned that the pandemic is not over, and as we enter the winter months it is important to remain vigilant and protect our loved ones.

Cases were at zero in May but then climbed, with the last high peak reaching 361 cases on 31st of July. By 27th September, the number of cases had reached its lowest in months, with 54 active cases.

But last week's community outbreak has seen a steady daily increase in cases. On Thursday, the number of active cases stood at 198. However, hospitalisations remain low. There are currently four positive cases in the Covid ward.

It's been a quite few months as far as Covid is concerned, with first the summer heat, and then the return of the political heat taking over most of the headlines. But over the last couple of weeks, the slowly rising stats are making the authorities take notice.

Good hand and respiratory hygiene are extremely important. This means washing your hands well and often, wearing a mask where it is required and coughing or sneezing into a tissue or elbow. It is also important to think carefully about who we socialise with and how.

Vulnerable individuals, particularly those over the age of 70, should take extra care if socialising and mixing with others. There has been a recent rise in cases amongst school age children, who often socialise and attend extra-curricular activities outside of the school setting. There is also evidence that large gatherings, for example public events and weddings, have been vectors for transmission in many of the recent community cases. It is important to take this into account when considering attending an event or socialising with someone who has recently attended a large gathering.

Just a couple of weeks ago, the Director of Public Health said she was concerned about the effects of the covid vaccine beginning to wear off, and that the coming months would be critical.

The COVID-19 booster vaccination campaign is currently underway for the over 50s, health and care workers and other vulnerable groups.

Members of the public are strongly encouraged to register their interest online to receive a booster vaccine as they are rolled out: www.gha.gi/pfizerbooster/

In addition, the Director of Public Health says the trends show that in recent weeks there has been high transmission of the virus at large gatherings and group events. The Minister for Health, Samantha Sacramento, says it is vital that this is kept under control in order to prevent further spikes in cases in the winter months. She says it is up to event organisers to strictly follow Public Health guidance and for individuals to be responsible in their own behaviour.

Meanwhile, the programme to vaccinate young 12 to 15 year olds has started. This follows the arrival of eight thousand doses of the Pfizer vaccine last week.

The jabs were originally planned for the mid-term break, but the early delivery of the vaccines meant that the team was able to bring the programme forward.

Around 750 school pupils received their first dose on Wednesday.

This brings the number of doses administered in Gibraltar to 85,000, including almost 5,000 boosters given to front line health staff and over 50s.