Teams from across the county’s hospitals, GP practices, adult social care, mental health services, ambulance services, community health services, and the voluntary and community sector are working together to keep services running smoothly, and ensure people receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

Winter brings additional challenges each year, including a rise in respiratory illnesses, flu and COVID-19, and worsening health conditions caused by colder weather.

Felicity Taylor-Drewe, Chief Operating Officer at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We know that winter is always a demanding time for our services, but the reality is that these pressures are now being felt all year-round. That’s why it’s so important that we continue to build on the strong partnership working that happens across Oxfordshire every day.

"Our Home First approach remains central – supporting people to stay well in their own homes, preventing unnecessary hospital admissions, and helping patients to return home safely and promptly when hospital care is no longer needed. Hospital is not always the best place for recovery, and we know that most people prefer to be cared for in or near their own homes wherever possible."

The public is also being urged to consider the most appropriate service for their needs. Emergency Departments should be reserved for life-threatening emergencies. For other health concerns, local pharmacies, GPs, Minor Injury Units, and NHS 111 online are all available to help.

Angie Fletcher, Deputy Chief Nurse at Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Looking after your physical and mental health is more important than ever during the winter months. Our teams are continuing to support people through community physical health and mental health services – whether that’s via our eight community hospitals, mental health helpline, or in people’s homes through our district nursing and school health teams.

"We’re also reminding people that help for mental health is available 24/7 through the Oxfordshire NHS Mental Health Helpline, accessible via NHS 111 online, and through Oxfordshire Talking Therapies.”

Dr Ben Riley, GP and Chief Medical Officer at BOB ICB, added: “Staying well this winter starts with preparation.  Make sure you’re up-to-date with your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations and also, if you’re eligible, a vaccination for a respiratory bug called RSV which can cause coughs and chest infections. If you live with a long-term condition such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure, please make sure you take your preventative medicines and attend your review appointments when they are due, so you are in the best shape to fight off any winter infections.”

If you do become unwell and are generally fit and healthy, many local pharmacies are now able to give you effective treatments without the need to see a GP, including treatments for common winter health conditions including earache, sinusitis, sore throat and straightforward urinary tract infections. Find out if your pharmacy offers these Pharmacy First services.

Health and social care partners are also working closely to support people outside of hospital settings.

Karen Fuller, Director of Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Helping people regain independence quickly and avoid long-term care is at the heart of our Oxfordshire Way approach. Through our discharge to assess model, residents can return home from hospital sooner and with the right support in place.

“This benefits hospitals by reducing unnecessary stays, but more importantly, it means people are recovering in familiar surroundings and staying connected to their communities.

“It’s all part of the Oxfordshire Way: our vision for supporting residents to live well and independently for as long as possible. By working alongside local voluntary and community partners, we’re making personalised, close-to-home support possible.”

The South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) is also playing a vital role in the system-wide response to winter pressures.

Duncan Robertson, Chief Paramedic at SCAS, said: "Demand for 111 and 999 services always increases through winter. We’re asking people to help us, help everyone, by making the best use of the options available. Using 111 online , if you can, helps us answer the phones faster for those who need to call us.

“Our 999 teams are always available, but should only be used for life-threatening emergencies like serious road traffic accidents, strokes, and heart attacks. We really appreciate the public’s support in helping us prioritise the most urgent cases.”

Working together as Team Oxfordshire

All health and care organisations in Oxfordshire are committed to working together through this winter and beyond. By sharing information, resources, and expertise, ‘Team Oxfordshire’ is delivering joined-up care and supporting people to stay healthy and well this winter.

Sign up to hear from us and receive the latest news and updates in our fortnightly newsletter, Your Oxfordshire.

The flu vaccine is available for free to all pregnant women, children aged two to three or in primary and secondary education, anybody in a clinical risk group – such as those with diabetes, heart disease or a weakened immune system and their close contacts – people who live in care homes, carers, frontline health and social care workers, and all those over the age of 65.

Those residents in care homes for older people, all adults aged 65 or over, anybody in a clinical risk group and frontline health and social care workers, including staff working in care homes for older people, can also get a free COVID booster.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “While flu and COVID is often just an unpleasant inconvenience, they can be dangerous and even life-threatening for some people, particularly those with certain health conditions. They spread more easily in the winter when we spend more time together indoors, and so the risk of serious illness is higher.

“The vaccination programme aims to provide those who need the most protection with the help they need. Getting the vaccine not only gives you extra protection but also protects your loved ones and those you work with.

“It is important to top up your protection, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year.

“And as with any respiratory infection, if you have a high temperature or feel unwell, do try to stay at home and avoid contact with others.”

Where possible, the COVID-19 and the flu vaccine will be given on the same day.

Find out more about the vaccinations and how to book an appointment by visiting nhs.uk/flujab and nhs.uk/covid-vaccine.

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The flu and COVID booster vaccines are both available for free for all those aged 65 or over; residents in care homes for older adults; persons aged six to 64 in a clinical risk group; frontline health and social care workers; those aged 12 to 64 living in households with immunosuppressed people; and those aged 16 to 64 who are carers.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “While flu and COVID is often just an unpleasant inconvenience, they can be dangerous and even life-threatening for some people, particularly those with certain health conditions. In response to detection of a potentially concerning new COVID-19 variant in England, the NHS has decided to accelerate the roll-out of its winter flu and COVID vaccination programme.

“The vaccination programme aims to provide those who need the most protection with the help they need as soon as possible. Getting the vaccine not only gives you extra protection but also helps to reduce the risk of passing on the virus to someone else. Please do come forward for your vaccination when invited to keep yourself and those around you safe.

“And as with any respiratory infection, if you have a high temperature or feel unwell, do try to stay at home and avoid contact with others. If you do need to leave the house, you can reduce your risk of passing on your infection by avoiding crowded places, ensuring rooms are well ventilated, wearing a face covering and regularly washing your hands.”

Where possible, the COVID-19 and the flu vaccine will be given on the same day.

Find out more about the vaccinations and how to book an appointment by visiting nhs.uk/flujab and nhs.uk/covid-vaccine.

Click Sign up to hear from us and receive the latest news and updates in our fortnightly newsletter, Your Oxfordshire.

The flu vaccine and COVID booster are both available for free for those at higher risk of illness or who are pregnant, frontline health and social care workers, and for those aged 50 years and over. The flu vaccine is also available for younger children in the form of a nasal spray.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “While flu and COVID are unpleasant for most people, they can be dangerous and even life-threatening for some people, particularly those with certain health conditions, and cases of both the flu and COVID already appear to be on the rise. Now is the perfect time to get a booster to stay protected against both. 

“Not only can the vaccine give you extra protection, it can also reduce the risk of you passing on a virus to somebody else – which is particularly important if you are a carer. Keep yourself and those around you safe against these viruses by getting vaccinated when invited.

“I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank all our amazing volunteers across our Oxfordshire who have helped to ensure the vaccination programme remains a success.”

The vaccine is available through schools for school-aged children, and pregnant women can get it through their GP practice, pharmacy or maternity service.

The COVID-19 and the flu vaccine can be given on the same day, and some people may be able to get both vaccines at the same time. However, this may not always be possible, so people are encouraged to get each vaccination as soon as they can rather than waiting to get them at the same time.

Find out more about the vaccinations and how to book an appointment by visiting www.nhs.uk/flujab and www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccine.

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Despite recent welcome declines in the number of people contracting COVID-19 in the county, thousands of people are still doing so each week. The latest figures showed 4,311 Oxfordshire people caught the virus in the week ending 18 February. 

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “The past two years have shown us how a combination of science and community and individual behaviours can make a real difference with the pandemic. And I would like to thank local people for the important part they have played in that.

“We’re now at a point where we can start to look forward, to live with COVID-19 and be confident about making plans. But my advice is to do this with caution and consideration for others.

“COVID-19 has not gone away. For some – the medically vulnerable and the elderly – it remains a threat. For those who have not had the vaccine, the virus still has the potential to cause serious illness.

“There are three simple steps we can all take in the coming months that will make a difference and enable us to come out of the pandemic as safely as possible.

“First, be considerate. If you feel ill, then you should still stay away from others and remain at home while you have symptoms. As with any other illness, no-one will thank you for sharing it.

“Second, be aware. There will be many in our communities who will be extremely nervous about the recent news. Be conscious of other people’s situations and what they are comfortable with and adjust your behaviour accordingly.

“Third, be cautious. Our rates are still high and will remain so for some time to come. Making sensible decisions, such as wearing a face covering in crowded places and letting fresh air into indoor spaces, does not mean restricting what you do.

“I would also ask people to be mindful of the fact that our health and social care system remains under huge pressure. So please only visit hospital emergency departments in genuine emergencies.

“We know that restrictions cannot continue indefinitely and, as we adjust to living with COVID-19, it will be up to each of us to exercise our own judgement about how to keep everyone safe.

“Vaccines remain our most importance line of defence against the virus, and I would urge anyone who has not yet had their first, second or booster jab to come forward. Detail on further boosters is also emerging, so please keep in touch with government announcements and come forward for a further jab when you are invited to do so by the NHS.

“For many of us, the pandemic has been a very tough time personally. But now, thanks to the power of science and the continued effort of communities across the county, we can start looking to the future. Let’s take the next step together carefully and considerately.”

What was announced by the prime minister?

·       With immediate effect:

• Guidance has been lifted for staff and students in most education and childcare settings to undertake twice-weekly asymptomatic testing.

·       From 24 February:

·       People who test positive for COVID will no longer be legally required to self-isolate; however, until 1 April, they will be advised to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for at least five full days.

·       Fully vaccinated close contacts and those aged under 18 will no longer be legally required to test daily for seven days.

·       Routine contact tracing will end.

·       Self-isolation support payments will end.

·       From 1 April:

·       Free symptomatic and asymptomatic testing for the general public will end.

·       Limited symptomatic testing will remain available for a small number of at-risk groups and in targeted health and social care settings.

·       Current government guidance on COVID passports will end, including venue check-in on the NHS COVID app.

Cases in the county have risen by 25 per cent in the seven days up to 21 January with 8,323 recorded. Cases in 5  9 year olds doubled during the same week and there was also a big increase in 10 - 14 year olds. People of parental age in their 30s and 40s also have higher case rates than other groups.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “It was good to see COVID cases in decline during January, but they have now bounced back to some degree and that is particularly marked in very young age groups. Our cases in primary school and early secondary school age children in Oxfordshire are among the highest in the south east of England.

“With Plan B restrictions being eased on 27 January, people will naturally want to relax and be less guarded. That’s understandable after all we’ve been through this last two years. However, it’s worth people knowing that cases are still at a really high level and factor this into their plans as they go about their daily lives.

“This includes continuing to take sensible precautions to help slow the spread of the virus. For instance from January 27  it is no longer a requirement to wear facemasks in indoor public spaces but it might often be a wise judgement to do so. It’s also important to keep testing so that you know if you have the virus and should isolate to avoid passing it on to others.

“Ventilating indoor spaces, washing hands regularly and all of the other sound advice that has applied throughout the pandemic is still important. For those who have not yet had the booster jab, we would encourage you to come forward as soon as possible if you are eligible.

“We are of course continuing to monitor the statistics on a weekly basis and we will draw people’s attention to important trends when they arise. This is certainly one such occasion – with a change in the trajectory of local cases very evident, especially among the young.

“Nationally, the message remains that we should all be cautious and we would certainly reflect that here in Oxfordshire.”

Cases in Oxfordshire rose to 1,201 per 100,000 of people in the week up to Christmas Eve – a 16 per cent rise on the week before. This represents 8,375 cases in total. There  has also been a significant increase in rates in those aged over 60 and this is the age-group most vulnerable to severe illness from COVID-19  

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “People will have read or heard about the Omicron variant being milder, however it has to be stressed that this has not yet been categorically proven. What we do know is that people are far more likely to experience milder symptoms if they have had their booster jab. 

“During the week before Christmas and since huge numbers of people have had their booster jab in Oxfordshire and that’s great news. However we also know that there are still people who qualify for that jab who have yet to come forward. My plea would be that they should do so as soon as possible.

 “The booster vaccine is our greatest protection as individuals but also in terms of protecting our friends, families, work colleagues and health and social care workers. Every jab builds our resilience as a community against this new variant.

 “I would also like to thank people for their cautious approach to Christmas celebrations. I know that people have enjoyed a better Christmas than 2020 but they have also managed their contacts in a way that means it has not been the same as all the festive seasons before.

“We would ask people to maintain that level of caution as we look to New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day and the winter months ahead. There is still a requirement for people to work from home as much as they can. We would also like to take the chance once more to remind people of all that accumulated pandemic knowledge in terms of what keeps us safe – wear face-coverings, ventilate rooms, test regularly and wash your hands.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish everybody a happy new year and let’s tackle this latest phase of the pandemic together as we move in to 2022.”

More details are available on the council’s website.

Meanwhile, as the NHS has recently confirmed significant, additional capacity has been added to the local vaccination programme in Oxfordshire - more vaccination sites are now online, including GP practices and pharmacies, and opening hours are being extended.

There are plenty of opportunities for people to get fully vaccinated:

• You can book an appointment through the national booking system (or call 119).
• If you have an appointment booked after Christmas, you can bring it forward to this week if you go onto the National Booking Service.
• You can pre-book a booster appointment two months after your second dose, with the jab taking place at the three-month marker.
• Your GP practice may get in touch with you directly to arrange an appointment.
• A number of walk-in opportunities are now available at GP practices. These are being advertised locally by GPs whenever there is availability. For a list of upcoming walk-ins, which is updated on a daily basis, please visit the CCG website.

The countywide rate has risen to 1,017.1 per 100,000 people. This represents a 34 per cent rise on the previous week, which in turn builds on steep increases earlier in December. In the past week alone, the case rate in Oxford has soared 79 per cent to 1147.2 per 100,000.

In Oxfordshire the number of cases in the week up to 10 December were 5,274. In the week up to 17 December they had risen to 7,088.

Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health Ansaf Azhar said: “This is a very challenging phase of the pandemic both locally and nationally. The Omicron variant now accounts for at least 65 per cent of local cases. We know this is a far more transmissible variant and that is why we are seeing such a steep rise in cases.

“While case rates remain highest in children, the number of cases in people in their 20s has grown hugely in recent days. These will very largely be people who are double rather than triple-jabbed. That’s why it’s so important to get a booster in order to offer yourself the best possible protection.

“With Christmas so close now we know that people will want to socialise and mix with loved ones and friends. Our message is to do so with great care. Try to avoid very large gatherings and always remember the pandemic knowledge that has become so familiar to us all.

“Ventilate rooms with fresh air, wash your hands regularly, wear face coverings in crowded indoor spaces, keep your distance from people when possible. Every little bit of cautious behaviour will help stop the spread of the virus and protect you and your loved ones.

“Perhaps most importantly we urge people to test before they go to meet people. Please don’t unconsciously take the virus into someone else’s home and ruin their Christmas and New Year.

“We have known throughout the pandemic that older people are more vulnerable so it is particularly important to take these precautions when you are going to be in contact with those age groups.

“The positive news is that people both locally and nationally have been coming forward in their droves to take up the offer of a booster jab. Please continue to do that – it undoubtedly offers extra protection to everyone during this new phase of the pandemic.

“We await further information from central government on whether decisions will be taken to move beyond Plan B in terms of restrictions. However, the ball is in our court as individuals to take care of ourselves and our families as best we possibly can.”

The campaign looks to raise awareness of the four major illnesses that are likely to affect school-age children this winter: the flu, norovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19.

These viruses can spread very easily, particularly in busy environments such as schools.

Councillor Mark Lygo, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: “I was delighted to be able to join some of the pupils at Heyford Park School to talk about this campaign and raise awareness of how we can all protect ourselves in the winter months.

“There is a much higher risk of catching a winter virus this year as people have more exposure to common viral infections. Last year, we didn’t see the kind of levels we would normally, which has meant this year we’re all a little more at risk when it comes to catching them – particularly school children. It’s likely that all these winter illnesses will be in circulation at the same time too.

“For the majority of children, although unpleasant, these illnesses will not be too serious, and they will soon recover after a bit of rest, but it’s important we do all we can to minimise the chance of them spreading to protect those individuals who may be at a higher risk of complications.

“We hope that this new campaign will help young people of all ages know what they can do to help keep these bugs at bay. Those aged 12 and over will now be able to get vaccinated against COVID-19, which is even more important with the new variant, while all school-aged children can get a flu vaccination.”

The campaign is being run with Oxfordshire County Council-run schools and early years services, with younger children being offered stickers and bookmarks and posters being displayed throughout schools.

There are simple steps that young people can take to protect themselves against the four viruses this winter:

• Stay at home if you’re feeling poorly.
• Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• Stay away from people are ill.
• Wash AND dry your hands regularly.
• Throw away tissues straight away – don’t leave them lying around.

People can find out more about winter viruses and how to stay well by visiting the NHS website,

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Case rates in the county currently stand at 648 per 100,000 of the population, compared with 655 per 100,000 on 4 January. Although case numbers remain highest in children, there are also particularly notable rises in the 40 - 49 age group.

There is also a small but rising number of Omicron variant cases in the county, which – as with the rest of England – will affect the overall situation ever more as December progresses.

Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, Ansaf Azhar, said: “Cases in Oxfordshire are as high as they’ve ever been, so now is the moment when we all need to take extra care to look after ourselves and our loved ones.

“It is thanks to the vaccination programme that these high case numbers are not matched by the sort of hospital numbers or death rates that we saw across the country in early 2021. That’s why it’s so important for people to come forward for a jab as soon as they become eligible, whether that’s a first, second, third or booster jab.

“We must also remember that the NHS and social care are under huge amounts of pressure, and we must do everything we can to protect these vital resources.

“With rising case numbers and the new variant in circulation, we are now in a very uncertain period. There are however some certainties, whether we are talking about Omicron or Delta. Wearing face coverings, being careful about mixing with others, washing hands, ventilating rooms and all of that familiar advice remains crucial.

Testing is another key defence in our fight against the virus. By regularly using lateral flow tests, particularly before meeting family, friends, or co-workers, you cut down the chances of passing on the virus unwittingly to others.

“With Christmas on the horizon, people will have some tricky judgements to make as we all try to negotiate our way through to the festive period without testing positive. The last thing anyone would want is to miss out on the big days of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day because you’re ill or self-isolating.

“We are not currently facing the kind of tough restrictions we did last year. So it’s down to each of us to take precautions so that we can protect ourselves and our loved ones.

“We urge people to apply their common sense to their own personal circumstances to help stop the spread and increase their chances of keeping their families COVID-free as Christmas approaches.”

The programme started on September 22 with the Oxfordshire School-aged Immunisation Team from Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust giving quick and painless nasal spray vaccinations to consented pupils from reception classes to year 11.

Schools are contacting parents, guardians and carers to ensure consent is provided. Any consented children who miss out on the day of immunisation at their school, either through sickness or absence, will be able to get their influenza vaccine at catch up clinics.

Around 50,000 children – 73% of reception to year 7 pupils – were immunised last year. The 2021 influenza campaign now includes secondary school children up to year 11. This includes children educated at home and children who attend special schools.

Preschool children over two years old will be offered the immunisation by their GP surgery.

You can find out more information on our vaccinations in non-school places by emailing: flu.schoolnurses@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk.

Ansaf Azhar, Director of Public Health at Oxfordshire County Council said: “The programme offers children and young people a chance to get their flu vaccines quickly and easily, protecting both them and those around them.

“It is also a good opportunity for them to meet their school nurses and health professionals and speak with them about any health-related concerns they may have.”

Fiona Singleton, Manager of the Oxfordshire School-aged Immunisation Team, said: “The flu vaccine provides the best protection against the virus and we are pleased that it has been extended to include all school aged children.

“Children can catch and spread flu easily. Vaccinating not only protects them but also those around them including those who are vulnerable. This is even more important now with Covid still present.”

Top 5 reasons to get your child vaccinated

Flu is an unpleasant and occasionally serious illness which can lead to children spending days in bed rather than being at school and participating in everyday family life. It can have serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

Immunising children reduces the spread of flu across the population and helps to protect other household members too.

1. Protect your child: The vaccine will help protect your child against flu and serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
2. Protect you, your family and friends: Vaccinating your child will help protect more vulnerable friends and family.
3. No injection needed: The nasal spray is painless and easy to have.
4. It’s better than having flu: The nasal spray helps protect against flu, has been given to millions of children worldwide and has an excellent safety record.
5. Avoid costs: If your child gets flu, you may have to take time off work or arrange alternative childcare.

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More than 11,000 people came forward to take PCR tests after mobile testing units were brought to the city when it was declared an enhanced response area by central government in early July.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “Alongside vaccinations we know that people’s behaviour is the key determinant in stopping the spread of COVID-19. Undoubtedly, the way people in Oxford stepped forward to get tested over the summer helped to drive down our very high case rates. I thank you all for this incredible effort

“Now that national restrictions have been lifted, people are enjoying more freedoms than they have had since early 2020. It has been great to hear and see that people are able to safely socialise and embrace a new normal. But at the same time we are not back to those pre-pandemic days and so caution is still required. The number of COVID cases being reported in the county remains quite high, with more than 1700 reported in the past week and we will remain reliant on people making sensible choices to keep the virus at bay in the coming weeks and months.

“We remain grateful for the small acts of care being taken on a daily basis such as wearing face coverings, washing hands, maintaining a distance between people, ventilating rooms and meeting outdoors where possible.

“Cases both locally and nationally remain highest in the 18 - 30 age group and I would once again urge those who have not booked their first jab to come forward. The vaccine is effective at reducing the risk of transmission and severe illness and − as we look towards autumn and people returning to work, school and university after the holidays − it represents our best chance of stopping the spread of the virus.”

How to get tested in Oxfordshire

While Oxford is no longer an Enhanced Response Area, there are still options to local people to get tested to ensure that they are not carrying the virus with the possibility of passing it on to others.

Meanwhile if you have COVID-19 symptoms and wish to get tested there are PCR facilities available:

• Drive-through facility at Oxford Parkway
• Banbury (Castle Quay shopping centre) - opening soon (an alternative mobile unit is available most days at Bodicote House).
• Oxford (Osney Lane, and Oxford Brookes University in Headington)
• Witney (Woodford Way car park).

How to get vaccinated in Oxfordshire

Booking a vaccine can be done simply via the NHS website

Meanwhile the local NHS are sometimes able to set-up walk-in vaccine clinics

Case rates in Oxfordshire

The countywide rate for the week ending August 13 was 255.6 per 100,000

By district the rates are:

• Cherwell 290.4 cases per 100,000 of the population
• Oxford 279.4 cases per 100,000 of the population
• South Oxfordshire 229.5 cases per 100,000 of the population
• Vale of White Horse 225.7 cases per 100,000 of the population
• West Oxfordshire 245.8 cases per 100,000 of the population

Although cases in Oxford City and West Oxfordshire have continued to decline, there are now signs that they are rising again in Cherwell, South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse.

A national change in rules is expected to take effect on 16 August as regards self-isolation for fully vaccinated people.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “We’ve seen a gradual relaxation in rules relating to COVID during the summer and people are now able to enjoy many of the freedoms that were part of daily life up until March 2020.

“The number of COVID cases being reported locally and nationally is lower than the peak that was reached in mid-July. However it is still significantly higher than the levels we observed during the spring and early summer.

“COVID is still very much out there – people are being hospitalised with it and sadly deaths are still being reported.

“My overall message to the people of Oxfordshire is that we are not out of the woods and life cannot yet be considered to have fully returned to the way it was before the pandemic.

“We still need to apply a level of caution to our daily lives – wearing a mask, washing hands, socialising outdoors, ventilating indoor spaces, remaining socially distant wherever possible. All of these things reduce the risk of the virus spreading, while the vaccination programme continues to increase our protection on a daily basis.

“On the subject of vaccines, we still have people who have yet to come forward for their first vaccine and we urge them to do so for their own sake and for the protection of their families, friends and colleagues. The highest number of cases in Oxfordshire remains in the 18-30 age group and this is the where the largest number of unvaccinated people are. We know that if we give this virus any area to exploit, it will do so.

“There’s another change to the national rules on 16 August, but I would urge people not to take this as a signal to relax too much. Please get tested regularly and, if you feel unwell, book a PCR test.

“I would also ask that people continue to co-operate with contact tracers when they get in touch. Every small act of personal responsibility helps limits the spread of this virus. Earlier this month our local contract tracing team reached their 4000^th case – this shows what a great job they have done to help contain the virus locally and we hope that people will continue to play their part so we can beat this virus together.”

Information on where to get tested in Oxfordshire can be found here

Case rates in Oxfordshire

For the week ending August 6 case rates in Oxfordshire were 219.3 cases per 100,000 of the population.

By district of Oxfordshire the figures were as follows:

• Cherwell 230.6 cases per 100,000 of the population
• Oxford 279.4 cases per 100,000 of the population
• South Oxfordshire 188 cases per 100,000 of the population
• Vale of White Horse 206.6 cases per 100,000 of the population
• West Oxfordshire 177.1 cases per 100,000 of the population

Extra mobile testing units will remain in the city until 15 August to help reduce positive cases further and reassure people that they are not carrying the virus before travelling to other parts of the UK or meeting friends and family.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “This week, we are continuing to see a decline in cases in both Oxford and the rest of the county. However, it is fair to say that case levels remain at much higher levels than they did during the spring and we still hope to drive the numbers down further.

“In Oxford, we still have the additional testing facilities provided by government in early July as part of the city becoming an enhanced response area (ERA) when case levels rose steeply. Almost 8,000 people have taken part in PCR testing in Oxford to date. This has had a real impact in reducing our positive case numbers – thank you to everyone who has taken part! But, from 16 August, the city is unlikely to remain an ERA, which means the extra mobile testing units won’t be available after this date. So please do take advantage of the testing facilities that Oxford has for the next couple of weeks.

“The message about the importance of testing extends to everyone in Oxfordshire. There are testing facilities throughout the county and the more we all get ourselves tested the more chance we have of stopping COVID in its tracks.

“As ever, getting vaccinated remains key. Across Oxfordshire, over 887,000 vaccinations have been delivered, including 379,000 second doses. However, to date, only 69 per cent of 30 - 39 year olds, and 62 per cent of those aged between 18 and 29, have had that first jab. So, we strongly urge people to come forward for the vaccination if they have not already done so. Every single dose of the vaccine improves our defences against the virus as individuals and within our communities – protect your family, work colleagues and neighbours.”

Testing options for people in Oxford

Oxford remains a national enhanced response area after large rises in cases in early July. Testing options for people in the city are listed below.

The mobile testing units are open for business 10am - 8pm (no appointment is needed):

The venues are:

• South Park (St Clement’s end)
• The Blavatnik School of Government, Walton Street (on the right hand side of the front of the building)
• Manzil Way Gardens, Cowley Road.
• Headington carpark, Old High Street (behind Waitrose)
• Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre carpark, Pegasus Road (behind the leisure centre adjacent to the football pitch).

The testing centres at Oxford Brookes University and Osney Lane are also open every day 8am - 8pm, including for those without symptoms, but people need to book an appointment on gov.uk

Arrangements outside Oxford City

People are asked to continue with twice-weekly rapid lateral flow testing and, if they have any symptoms, book a PCR test.

There are five PCR testing centres open seven days a week:

• Oxford Parkway, near Kidlington (OX2 8HA) – drive-through
• Woodgreen Leisure Centre, Banbury (OX16 0HS)
• Osney Lane, Oxford (OX1 1NY)
• Oxford Brookes University (OX3 0BP)
• Woodford Way Carpark, Witney (OX28 6JS).

Additional PCR testing sites will be available at additional locations throughout the week. Booking is still required.

• Carterton Pavilion, Monahan Way, Carterton, OX18 3AN
• Cherwell District Council Offices, Bodicote House, White Post Road, Bodicote, OX15 4AA
• Chinnor Rugby Club, Rectory Pavilion, Kingsey Road, Thame, OX9 3JL
• Wheatley Campus, Oxford Brookes University OX33 1HX

Case rates in Oxfordshire

Current case rates in Oxfordshire are that there were 217.6 cases per 100,000 residents in the seven days up to July 30.

• Cherwell: 207.3 cases per 100,000 of the population
• Oxford 306.3 cases per 100,000 of the population
• South Oxfordshire 177.4 cases per 100,000 of the population
• Vale of White Horse 186.8 cases per 100,000 of the population
• West Oxfordshire 198.8 cases per 100,000 of the population

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The decision to widen the availability of testing beyond the 18 - 29 year-old age group has been taken after there has been a 21 per cent increase in cases in those aged 30 - 59 in the last week. Alongside this, there has been a welcome decline in positive cases in the 18 - 29 year old age group, although they still make up more than half of cases. Thanks to the efforts of all those who have taken part in testing and isolating, cases in the city have reduced from 637.6 per 100,000 population to 447.3, a 30 per cent overall reduction.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “The falling of rates in Oxford are welcome but they remain uncomfortably high and we need to drive them down further. The extra testing facilities we currently have for the city as part of being one of the government’s enhanced response areas are going to be with us for at least another week. In light of the current trends, the sensible thing to do is to broaden out the testing offer to all adults to nip this spread in the bud.

“If you are aged over 18 come and get tested – by doing so you are adding to Oxford’s fightback against COVID-19’s summer assault on the city. Thousands of 18 - 29 year olds have already taken the opportunity to get tested since 3 July when the mobile PCR testing units first arrived in the city. This has really helped to reduce the spread of the virus – thank you!

“Similarly, we will repeat our plea to those who have yet to be vaccinated to get their first jab booked. The vaccines are safe and effective. This virus can be nasty and makes you feel very unwell. A vaccine will reduce the chance of serious illness, regardless of age, and will also reduce the chances of a person passing on the virus. This is incredibly important as the Delta variant is more transmissible.

“We are also keeping a close eye on case levels in all parts of Oxfordshire. Oxford’s cases remain substantially higher than elsewhere in the county but it is fair to say that they have risen as a whole during the summer.

“My message to everyone all over the county is to do the right thing – wear a mask in crowded spaces, keep your distance, socialise outdoors, wash your hands regularly and ventilate indoor spaces. Every small act of COVID aware behaviour is a way of defying this virus and allowing the vaccine to perform its positive task.

“Testing, vaccination and following the COVID basic behaviours are beginning to work in combination in Oxford. However, there’s no reason that shouldn’t be the case in Banbury, Abingdon, Henley-on-Thames, Witney, Wallingford, Wantage, Faringdon, Bicester, Burford, Bampton, Chipping Norton, Didcot, Thame – and all of our villages.

“If you have travel plans coming up, it would be wise to get tested before you embark on your journey to help stop the spread.”

The venues offering PCR testing in Oxford are:

• South Park (St Clement’s end)
• The Blavatnik School of Government, Walton Street (on the right hand side of the front of the building)
• Manzil Way Gardens, Cowley Road.

The testing centres at Oxford Brookes University and Osney Lane are also open every day 8am - 8pm, including for those without symptoms, but people need to book an appointment on gov.uk.

If people test positive, they will be told to self-isolate and follow the national guidance. Information, support and advice on self-isolation can be found on the county council’s website or people can download the information as part of a self-isolation support pack.

Meanwhile, people aged 18 or over can grab a first jab at a walk-in vaccination clinics at:

• Iffley Road Sports Centre, Iffley Road, Cowley, Oxford, OX4 1EQ. This will be open until Friday 16 July, 9.30am - 7.30pm
• Ewart House, Ewert Pl, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7SG. This will be open until Friday 16 July, 10am - 7.30pm
• Banbury Cross Health Centre, South Bar House, 6 Oxford Road, Banbury, OX16 9AD. This is open only on Saturday 17 July, 10.30am to 2pm.

All the latest on walk-in clinics can be found at oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk

If you are aged 18 or over, you can also book a vaccination on the national booking service (people do not need to wait to be invited)

Current case rates in Oxfordshire

The overall total for Oxfordshire stands at 281.2 cases per 100,000 of the population.

• Cherwell: 212.0 cases per 100,000 of the population
• Oxford: 447.3 cases per 100,000 of the population
• South Oxfordshire 234.4 cases per 100,000 of the population
• Vale of White Horse 202.9 cases per 100,000 of the population
• West Oxfordshire 302.8 cases per 100,000 of the population

Oxford City’s cases are now firmly in the top ten in the entire country and the highest in the south-east with a rate of 620.5 cases per 100,000 people – this compares to a rate of 56.4 per 100,000 in the city as recently as 4 June.

More than a thousand young people took part in PCR testing at temporary facilities over the weekend. Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council is asking for more people aged 18 - 29 to now take part with three walk-in mobile testing units open for business from Tuesday 6 July - Sunday 11 July, 10am - 8pm (no appointment is needed):

• South Park (St Clement’s end)
• The Blavatnik School of Government, Walton Street (on the right hand side of the front of the building)
• Manzil Way Gardens, Cowley Road.

The testing centres at Oxford Brookes University and Osney Lane are also open every day 8am - 8pm, including for those without symptoms, but people need to book an appointment on gov.uk.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “Cases in Oxford in the last seven days have risen over three-fold and this comes on top of large rises in recent weeks. The overall rise in cases over the last month has been exceptionally steep.

“Oxford is now a COVID hotspot for the whole of England and we have seen nothing like this since the big spike in cases at Christmas. We must do all we can to get on top of this situation together working with central government, which is very much aware of the rise we are experiencing.

“Around 80 per cent of our cases in Oxford are 18 - 29 year olds so we are urging anyone in this age group to get a PCR test this week. Thank you to all those who took part in testing at the weekend – this was a fantastic effort – but please help us spread the word to your friends, family and colleagues of the same age to come along and do the same.

“If you are aged 18 - 29 living in Oxford, please get a test to keep safe while you are waiting to get full protection from your vaccinations and play your part in stopping the spread of the virus. Cases around the county are at lower levels but they too are rising. Rates in the over 60s are still comparatively low but they have risen four-fold over the last week.

“As the government announced yesterday, we are on track for society to reopen fully on 19 July but regular testing and completing the vaccination programme remain the nation’s long-term plan for living with COVID-19. If you haven’t already, please take up your offer of a first vaccination.”

The vaccination of all adults over the age of 18 continues. Walk-in clinics in Oxford have delivered over 800 first dose COVID-19 vaccinations to people aged 18 or over as part of the ‘grab a jab’ weekend (26/27 June). To date, over 765,500 COVID-19 vaccinations have been delivered in Oxfordshire since the start of the programme.

More walk-in clinics will be available to those aged 18 or over for first dose vaccines:

• Iffley Road Sports Centre, Acer Nethercott Hall, Iffley Rd, Cowley, Oxford OX4 1EQ, Tuesday 6 July - Friday 9 July, 9.30am to 7.30pm. The last entry is at 7pm apart from Friday 9 July which closes at 6pm, last entry at 5.30pm. Enter via pedestrian walkway from Iffley Road, not from Jackdaw Lane.
• East Oxford Health Centre, Manzil Way, Cowley OX4 1GE on Saturday 10 July, 9am - 5pm.
• University Club on Mansfield Road,  Wednesday, 7 July, 10am - 8pm and Thursday 8 July and Friday, 9 July, 9am - 8pm. 

All the latest on walk-in clinics can be found at oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk

No appointment is necessary, and no proof of identity is required (although helpful) to allow people aged 18 or over to ‘grab a jab.’

People who attend a walk-in clinic for their first dose will have their vaccination record updated online and will then be able to book in their second dose appointment using the national booking system.

If you are aged 18 or over, you can also book a vaccination on the national booking service (people do not need to wait to be invited).

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Oxford is now top of national league tables for COVID and it is a situation we need to tackle collectively as individuals, friends, colleagues and families. The national situation is clearly moving from rules and roadmaps to personal responsibility and common sense.

“With this spike in cases in mind, I would therefore urge everyone to continue to do the things that are tried and tested in terms of keeping us safer – keep a distance, wear a mask, wash your hands, socialise outdoors where possible and keep indoor spaces ventilated. Let’s confront this rise in cases together and drive the numbers back down.”

Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, added: “The situation in Oxford is very serious. We now have the highest rate of infections in the south-east, and we are among the highest in the whole of England. We have urgently called for extra resources to get on top of the problem. I am asking everyone to help bring the infection rates down. 

"Eighty per cent of the cases are in the 18 - 29 age group so we are asking everyone in this age group to please come to one of the walk in PCR testing sites that are being deployed this week to make sure you know your COVID status and can self-isolate if positive. Don’t forget it is possible to be positive and putting others at risk without having symptoms yourself.

“When restrictions ease on 19 July, the virus will have even more opportunity to spread. We also still have a high percentage of people in Oxford who are unvaccinated in some areas of the city. With case rates rising this could mean people getting very ill. Our communities have been great at looking after each other this last year, and young people deserve particular credit for supporting their elders. 

"Anyone aged 18 or over who hasn’t yet had their first jab can now book an appointment through the NHS website. Please don’t lose focus now - we must still keep protecting each other.”

Case rates across Oxfordshire per 100,000 population:

• Cherwell: 176.7
• Oxford: 620.5
• South Oxfordshire: 206.3
• Vale of White Horse: 147.8
• West Oxfordshire: 139.2

Additional PCR testing facilities are being brought to the city with numbers rising rapidly. The number of daily cases in the city are now as high as those seen at the peak of the pandemic.

People aged between 18 and 30 who live in Oxford are being asked to come forward and get a PCR test to help stop the spread. This is regardless of whether people have symptoms or not. PCR tests are not usually used for people without symptoms, but special measures are being implemented to detect positive cases as quickly as possible.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “The rise in cases in Oxford is concentrated in younger age groups and we strongly urge people aged under 30 to come forward and get tested this weekend.

“We need to work as a community to try to reverse this trend as soon as possible and the extra testing facilities that have been assigned to Oxford are part of ongoing conversations between ourselves and the government about the emerging situation.

“We know that one in three people who have the virus don’t have any symptoms, and so it’s critically important that we identify these cases and stop onward transmission of the virus and protect those who haven’t yet been vaccinated.

“We continue to urge young people to come forward and get the vaccine and we ask people to get back to basics and remember to keep a distance from others, wash their hands regularly, avoid indoor socialising and if you are indoors, make sure the room is ventilated.

“There’s a big football match this weekend so there’s certainly a risk of people gathering and spreading the virus further. Please consider safe ways to enjoy the match – avoid large gatherings and remain with your own household.”

Meanwhile Oxford City Council has arranged for two extra COVID secure team officers to be on duty on Saturday, in response to the rising numbers and the expected extra customers out for the football.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Oxford is being given these facilities because cases are rising so rapidly in the city. We are keen that people come forward as and use them as a first step in trying to tackle this local situation that is developing. Please do your bit and get yourself tested as soon as possible.”

Councillor Susan Brown, the leader of Oxford City Council, said: “I am really concerned about the rates in the city, we are fast becoming one of the worst affected areas of the country. I urge younger people – among whom we are seeing case rates are surging - to get tested this weekend. If you test positive please self-isolate to minimise the spread.

“We are only weeks away from the planned date for lifting all restrictions, and to stop the situation in Oxford getting worse very quickly when that happens we need to stop the rise in cases quickly. Please stick to the guidance on social distancing, masks and meeting outdoors. We’ve all been enjoying getting back to meeting up again, but please remember you can limit or increase the virus spread by your actions. Getting tested this weekend is one of the ways you can help limit the spread.

“The biggest case rises are among the young, who don’t have the protection of the vaccine. We’re talking to the two universities and colleges to make sure students are able to get tested before they leave for the summer, and supporting the additional vaccine clinics being set up to target young people.”

What are the testing arrangements?

There are three mobile testing units in Oxford, which are open from 10am to 8pm this weekend. All three are operating on a walk-in basis and no appointment is necessary. They are located at:

• Blavatnik School of Government, Walton Street
• South Park (St Clements end)
• Oxpens car park.

The testing centres at Oxford Brookes University and Osney Lane are also open every day from 8am to 8pm, but you’ll need to book an appointment first.

You can book a PCR test on gov.uk. If you are aged 18 - 30 and living in the city you can book a test even if you do not have symptoms by selecting the option “I have been advised to get a test by my local council, health protection team or healthcare professional”.

Cases have risen from 21.1 cases per 100,000 in late May to 101.8 cases per 100,000 in the week ending 25 June. The largest number of cases remain in people aged below 30, with 20 to 29-year olds accounting for 46 per cent of all new cases. All people aged 18 and above are now eligible to receive their first jab.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “Cases have risen by 66 per cent in the last week alone and are now uncomfortably high in the county. Geographically the largest numbers are in Oxford City, where the weekly rate is currently 181 per 100,000.

“Without the vaccine the rate would be much higher and we urge everyone aged 18 and over to come forward and get the jab to give themselves the best levels of protection possible. You can book an appointment through the national NHS booking service, take up an invitation from your GP or attend one of the pop-up clinics in Oxford.

“We are seeing a large number of young people come forward for their vaccine, which is really encouraging. But it’s worth reminding everyone that the first dose doesn’t start offering notable protection until two weeks after the jab has been administered and you must have two doses of the vaccine to receive full protection.

“We also ask people to keep up with their twice-weekly lateral flow testing and getting a PCR test if they develop any symptoms. Please wear face coverings in appropriate circumstances and stick to hands, face, space and fresh air. That advice applies particularly to those younger age groups where COVID levels are so high.

“We can’t say these things often enough. The summer holidays are on the horizon but if people catch COVID or are in contact with someone who has COVID, they still need to self-isolate for 10 days and this potentially could badly affect any plans they may have.

“We haven’t seen cases this high either locally or nationally since those winter months before the vaccines had begun to be administered in large numbers. The Delta variant is undoubtedly enjoying the closer social contact that is going on and case levels are on a steep trajectory. My appeal would be for people to remain cautious and aware. The chances of catching COVID are greater now than at any time since the winter. Get tested, get vaccinated and take great care when you are out and about. Such care doesn’t just protect you – it protects your friends, family and colleagues too.”

Walk-in clinics

Pepole aged over 18 who still need the first dose of their Covid-19 vaccination are welcome to attend walk-in clinics at The Leys Health Centre and East Oxford Health Centre. The two clinics will be offering more first dose vaccines on:

• The Leys Health Centre, Dunnock Way, Oxford OX4 7EX on Saturday 3 July (9am to 1.30pm)

• East Oxford Health Centre, Manzil Way, Cowley OX4 1GE on Saturday 10 July (9am to 5pm)

No appointment is necessary, and no proof of identity is required (although helpful) to allow people aged 18 or over to ‘grab a jab.’

People who attend a walk-in clinic for their first dose will have their vaccination record updated online and will then be able to book in their second dose appointment using the national booking system.

Case rates in Oxfordshire’s districts

• Cherwell: 93 cases per 100,000
• Oxford: 180.4 cases per 100,000
• South Oxfordshire: 102.1 cases per 100,000
• Vale of White Horse: 54.4 cases per 100,000
• West Oxfordshire: 63.3 cases per 100,000

With government announcements on the next stage of the national roadmap due to be announced on Monday 14 June, people are being reminded of the importance of taking precautions to protect themselves, their families, friends and wider communities from the virus.

Ansaf Azhar, Director for Public Health at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “The way to protect yourself and your family is to get the jab when called, get tested often and remember the basics of hands, space, face and fresh air.

“It was great news this week that over 25s can now be vaccinated and we urge people in that age group to book their first jab as soon as possible. There’s also good news in that hospital admissions and deaths have not yet shown an increase despite increasing cases. However, the more we can contain the virus and limit transmission, the better chance we give the vaccine to continue doing the great job that it is doing.

“Cases both locally and nationally are rising quite sharply and we need to continue to do all we can to contain that rise. In effect, we are in a big partnership – the vaccine is a very strong new partner in the battle against the virus, but the other parts of the partnership are the trusted duo of our own behaviours and testing.

“A six-fold increase in cases in the space of a fortnight is a clear reminder that we should all go about our daily lives with due caution. We’re in June now and the weather is often fine and warm. It therefore makes sense for people to choose to mix outdoors even though the rules say that limited indoor mixing is now possible.

“The vaccine is doing a great job, but we need to do our bit too and ensure we’re doing everything possible to stop the spread. It’s also worth also reminding people that the first dose of the vaccine will only give good protection 3 or 4 weeks after you've had it, while you need two doses for stronger and longer-lasting protection.”

Cases across Oxfordshire’s districts

The number of cases overall rose from 147 (week-ending May 28) to 332 (week-ending) June 4.

Cherwell: 25.9 cases per 100,000

Oxford: 56.4 cases per 100,000

South Oxfordshire: 68.3 cases per 100,000

Vale of White Horse: 49.3 cases per 100,000

West Oxfordshire: 38.9 cases per 100,000

A total of 146 cases were recorded in Oxfordshire in the seven days up to 28 May compared to 58 in the week up to 21 May. This equates to 21.1 cases per 100,000 compared to 8.4 cases per 100,000 the week before.

Ansaf Azhar, Director for Public Health in Oxfordshire, said: “Throughout the country we are seeing cases go up and Oxfordshire is no exception. To some degree it was expected that there would be an increase when lockdown was further eased. However, now that cases are clearly on the rise, it serves as a reminder that the virus is still very much in circulation.

“We have vaccinated significant numbers of people, but by no means all of the population. The new variant of concern that was first identified in India is now present in the county, with over two dozen cases reported as of 27 May. This is being closely monitored as is the overall case rate in the county.

“While we want people to enjoy their new-found freedoms, it is important that they keep themselves and others safe. Make sure you remember the basics – from washing your hands regularly to keeping your distance. And alongside the mantra of ‘hands, face, space’, fresh air is key. So now that summer is here, do take advantage of the warm weather and meet people outdoors where you can. It is indoors where COVID particularly has a field day.

“We continue to urge people to take up the offer of a vaccine when it is made and to regularly get tested through the many options available. Both of those things help counter the spread of the virus.

“With so many people having now been vaccinated, we are making incremental progress against COVID-19. But the virus is constantly evolving - as we can see from the rapid spread of the new variant - plus a significant proportion of people are not yet vaccinated or have only had their first dose. So we all need to continue to be careful.

“I’ve asked people to continue to be cautious and use their common sense so many times over the past 15 months that I am sure people are fed up of hearing it. However, that message applies now every bit as much as it did back in March 2020 when the pandemic first hit.

“Let’s do all we can to keep cases under control. We have more weapons at our disposal now than ever before, but common sense and discipline remain central to combatting the virus. I would ask people to continue to deploy both so that we can keep Oxfordshire open and keep our communities safe.”

Case rates by district:

• Cherwell: 8.6 per 100,000
• Oxford 26.2 per 100,000
• South Oxfordshire 28.9 per 100,000
• Vale of White Horse 27.2 per 100,000
• West Oxfordshire 13.6 per 100,000

Indoor hospitality is now able to re-open and indoor entertainment can resume, including cinemas, museums, and children’s play areas. Up to six people or two households can meet indoors and up to 30 people outdoors. All remaining outdoor entertainment can reopen, such as outdoor cinemas and performances. International travel to ‘green list’ countries is also allowed.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “With people now meeting indoors once more and wanting to meet relatives they may not have seen for several months, it is more important than ever that people take advantage of the testing options that are available. It really is a case of better safe than sorry, particularly when we’re facing a new variant of the virus.

“The numbers in Oxfordshire are currently low and they reflect the caution people have been exercising. Thank you to you all for playing your part! However, with the new rules bringing more of us together, we must remember that one in three of us can carry the virus without symptoms. Being indoors also increases the risk of spreading COVID-19. Testing remains a crucial part of how we can continue to ease out of lockdown safely.

“The number of requests for testing has declined in recent weeks but lateral flow tests are still playing an important role in picking up cases. Last week more than half of new cases identified in Oxfordshire came from lateral flow tests.

“Let’s continue to play it safe. We do not know how transmissible the new variant first detected in India is and this is a further reason for caution.

“Please think about keeping your distance from those who are not fully vaccinated or may have other vulnerabilities. To mitigate the risk of catching or spreading COVID-19, we should all: meet outside where possible; take the vaccine when offered it; minimise how many people we are in close contact with, and for how long; take part in twice-weekly symptom-free testing; and continue to test and isolate if we have symptoms or test positive. Remember the basics of hands, face, space and fresh air to keep our progress moving in the right direction.”

What is the current picture in Oxfordshire?

The current number of cases per 100,000 of the population in Oxfordshire is 10.4.

• Cherwell: 13.3
• Oxford: 10.5
• South Oxfordshire: 7.7
• Vale of White Horse: 9.6
• West Oxfordshire: 10.8

Oxfordshire County Council’s Public Health Director, Ansaf Azhar, is also reminding people of the importance of regular symptom-free testing and the range of different testing options available to make this as easy and convenient as possible.

He said: “I’m pleased to say that COVID levels in Oxfordshire have remained stable for the past few weeks. However, the number of people testing positive each week is more than 100, so the virus is still out there. The schools have now returned and shops are fully open and so we are closely monitoring the data locally and nationally to see if there is any sign of change.

“One of the key ways in which we can control the virus is through testing and I would encourage everyone to get tested twice a week. Anyone can pass on COVID – even those people who have had the vaccine – and so it’s really important that as many people get tested as possible to help us identify positive cases quickly, break the chain of transmission and stop the spread of the virus. Regular testing helps to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community. So I would urge everyone, including those who have been vaccinated, to make twice-weekly testing a regular habit.

“Rapid COVID tests are quick and easy, with results provided in just half an hour. And there are plenty of ways in which you can get a free test, from visiting one of our testing centres to picking up a home testing kit from your local pharmacy or having one delivered straight to your door.

“Of course another major factor in keeping COVID at bay is abiding by the rules. Please don’t get bored with keeping the required distance from others, washing your hands regularly, wearing a face covering and not meeting in large groups.

“We are still consolidating our position in respect to COVID. Every single act of care and caution keeps COVID on the back foot and every time someone does those simple basic things they are playing their part in countering COVID. Please keep it up – it is working.

“The bank holiday weekend will provide temptations to stray beyond the national roadmap rules as they currently stand. Please don’t – let’s play it safe and keep Oxfordshire open.”

How can you get tested?

It is now even easier than before to take part in twice-weekly lateral flow testing. Anybody can get tested and all of the council’s symptom-free testing facilities now work on a walk-in basis – you do not need to book an appointment. Symptom-free testing centres are at:

• Spiceball Leisure Centre in Banbury (OX16 2BW)Weekdays 7am - 7pm, Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm
  PLEASE NOTE that from Tuesday 4 May, this testing site will be moving to Banbury United Football Club
• The Beacon in Wantage (OX12 9BX)Weekdays 8.30am - 7pm, Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm
• King’s Centre in Oxford (OX2 0ES)Weekdays 8.30am - 7pm, Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm
• Brownes Hall in Carterton (OX18 3JH)Weekdays 8.30am - 7pm, Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm

Home testing kits can also be collected from any of these testing sites during opening hours as well as a number of pharmacies across the county. Check which pharmacies offer this service by visiting maps.test-and-trace.nhs.uk

Home testing kits can also be collected from any of the symptom test sites, 2.30pm - 8pm:

• Oxford Parkway, Water Eaton Park & Ride, Oxford Road, Oxford (OX2 8HA) Please note that this is a drive-through testing site and is only accessible by car.
• Woodgreen Leisure Centre, Woodgreen Avenue, Banbury (OX16 0HS)
• Osney Lane, Oxford (OX1 1NY)
• Woodford Way car park, Witney (OX28 6JS)
• Fuller Building Restaurant, Oxford Brookes University, Headington (OX3 0BP)

Primary school aged children should not use lateral flow tests. Anybody displaying symptoms should not get a lateral flow test and should instead self-isolate and book a PCR test at one of the testing sites above. For more information on how to book visit www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.

For further information about the different testing options, visit www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/covidtest

Current COVID case-rates in Oxfordshire

In the week ending April 23 the number of cases per 100,000 people in Oxfordshire was 20.4. By district the rates were:

• Cherwell 23.9
• Oxford 24.3
• South Oxfordshire 13.4
• Vale of White Horse 24.3
• West Oxfordshire 14.5

People are being advised to continually keep their distance, wear face coverings, wash their hands and use hand sanitiser while out and about at shops, hairdressers, pubs and other outlets.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “We’ve all seen the media images and footage of people outside pubs, queuing up, looking for bargains in shops and having their hair cut. The Easter break has provided the opportunity for many to meet up with family and friends and enjoy the sunshine. However, a small minority has not done this safely or followed the basic rules that keep people as safe as possible.

“We are acutely aware that people will have heard us urge people to wear face coverings, keep a safe distance and wash their hands many, many times over the last year. The reason we keep doing that is because those behaviours are the foundation of what keeps COVID at bay.

“COVID is a respiratory virus – the closer you are to people the more the chance you have of contracting COVID. If you keep your distance and wear a mask it helps stop that process occurring. Being outdoors also drastically reduces the risk. We need to play it safe if we are to keep Oxfordshire open and consolidate the progress we’ve seen in recent weeks.

“If you want to go to the shop or sit outside the pub, the way to do that safely is by abiding by the rules. That applies whether you are young or old, whether you have or have not been vaccinated and whether you have already had COVID or not. With new variants being reported and surge-testing having taken place elsewhere in England, the need to play it safe becomes ever more obvious.

“COVID is still here. The number of new cases has declined due to lockdown and the vaccination programme but the virus has not disappeared and neither, therefore, has the risk. We all know from last winter how quickly case rates can rise to a dangerous level. That means that while things have become closer to normal this spring, they are not normal as we knew it before March 2020.

“By all means enjoy the fact the rules have been relaxed but do so safely by remembering the basics. If you act like we’ve boarded a time-machine and gone back to 2019, you have a much higher chance of catching COVID and passing it on to your family – it really is that simple.”

The latest COVID case rates across Oxfordshire are 21.1 per 100,000. The rates in individual districts are:

Cherwell 27.2

Oxford 29.5

South Oxfordshire  12

Vale of White Horse  19.1

West Oxfordshire  15.4

Oxfordshire County Council has worked closely with district and city councils, and other partners, to expand its symptom-free testing scheme. This includes: an additional site opening to serve the west of the county; all symptom-free sites offering twice-weekly testing; and the option of ‘community collect’ of lateral flow device (LFD) tests for those eligible from all local sites.

Anyone showing any COVID-19 symptoms should self-isolate immediately (along with their household) and book a PCR test through one of five symptomatic testing sites throughout the county. They must not attend a symptom-free site.

Today, restrictions have eased slightly with the ‘stay at home’ rule lifted and people now able to meet outdoors in groups of up to six or two households. With Easter holidays on the horizon, Oxfordshire’s Director of Public Health, Ansaf Azhar, is urging people to both stick to the new rules and to take part in symptom-free testing to help stop the spread of the virus.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “Today marks the start of the gradual easing of restrictions to take us out of lockdown. This is great news but we must remain vigilant. To accompany the roadmap changes, we need to simply follow the rules – as well as keep our distance, wash our hands, wear a mask – and crucially, take part in any symptom-free testing programme we all can.

“To make this easier for people, we have expanded our symptom-free testing scheme. These tests have done a great job so far in helping us to identify the one in three people who have COVID but display no symptoms. Identifying infectious individuals early, isolating them, and tracing their contacts can reduce transmission of the virus significantly.

“We know that everybody is yearning to get their lives back to some sense of normality as soon as possible, and this is just one way that will help us along the way.”

Symptom-free testing for public-facing workers, volunteers and childminders

Symptom-free testing is available twice-weekly for public-facing workers, volunteers and childminders who cannot access a test through their workplace. It is available at four sites across the county:

• Spiceball Leisure Centre in Banbury (OX16 2BW): 7am - 7pm (Mon - Fri); 8.30am - 12.30pm (Sat)
• The Beacon in Wantage (OX12 9BX): 8.30am - 7pm (Mon - Fri); 8.30am - 12.30pm (Sat)
• King’s Centre in Oxford (OX2 0ES): 8.30am - 7pm (Mon - Fri); 8.30am - 12.30pm (Sat)
• Brownes Hall in Carterton (OX18 3JH): 8.30am - 7pm (Mon - Fri); 8.30am - 12.30pm (Sat)

Booking is required on the county council’s website.

The test used is a rapid lateral flow device (LFD) and involves taking a swab of the back of the throat and inside of the nose. The swab is given to trained staff at the test centre who process the test on-site. Residents will receive results within an hour by text message or by email. If the result is positive, people must self-isolate and follow the national guidance.

Symptom-free testing at home and community collect for parents and carers

To support the return to school that began on 8 March, all households with nursery, primary, secondary and college-aged children and young people, including childcare and support bubbles, can access the ‘community collect’ of lateral flow tests. These tests are undertaken at home and those eligible are encouraged to test twice a week.

Tests are now available for adults in these households to collect from any local testing site across Oxfordshire – symptomatic sites 2.30pm - 8pm and symptom-free sites during their opening hours. Residents do not need to make an appointment to collect tests, but they can check online if the location is open or busy before they go.

For those who cannot get to a site, they can order online, where tests will be delivered to their home.

The symptomatic test sites are where people go to get tested – using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests when they have symptoms of COVID-19 – and because of that, collection of these home test kits is set for when testing of symptomatic people will not be taking place.

The symptomatic PCR local testing sites offering community collect in Oxfordshire include:

Regional testing site (drive-through)

• Oxford Parkway, Water Eaton Park & Ride, Oxford Road, Oxford (OX2 8HA)

Local testing sites (walk-through)

• Woodgreen Leisure Centre, Woodgreen Avenue, Banbury (OX16 0HS)
• Osney Lane, Oxford (OX1 1NY)
• Woodford Way car park, Witney (OX28 6JS)
• Fuller Building Restaurant, Oxford Brookes University, Headington (OX3 0BP)

For those using lateral flow tests at home, the sample is collected using a swab and needs to be tested following the instructions provided. The result is confirmed in 30 minutes and needs to be reported to the NHS on gov.uk. Once a home test is completed, the kit should be placed into the bag provided and disposed of with general household waste.

A secondary PCR test will be required for positive lateral flow tests that are taken at home.

For anyone testing positive for COVID-19, a self-isolation information pack is available at oxfordshire.gov.uk/selfisolate to help provide advice and sources of support. If any result is negative, people must continue to follow social distancing guidelines, wear a mask in public and regularly wash their hands.

Community collect lateral flow tests are for eligible adults and should not be used for testing children. Children and young people at school or college should continue to use lateral flow tests provided to them by their school.

Any child or adult who has symptoms of COVID-19, should self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test at one of Oxfordshire’s five symptomatic testing sites as soon as possible.

For further information on the types of tests available, residents can read the answers to a number of frequently asked questions on the county council’s website.

Tier 4 is the highest alert level in the national four-tier system, and it means that Oxfordshire residents must stay at home, except for a limited number of purposes. These include essential work that cannot be done from home, buying food, taking exercise, or getting medical treatment. In tier 4, you cannot meet other people socially indoors, unless you live with them or are part of a support bubble.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “We have had some good news with the new Oxford vaccine being approved and we know that a number of people in Oxfordshire have now begun the process of being vaccinated. However we cannot allow this to tempt us in to relaxing – we still have tough Winter weeks ahead of us before the vaccines will start to have an impact.

“We know that the new variant of COVID-19 spreads extremely quickly and these rules were applied for our own safety and protection. The numbers of cases across the county have risen very steeply and we have also seen sharp rises in hospital admissions.

“Viruses always thrive in Winter and we can clearly see how aggressively COVID-19 can spread if we let our guard down even marginally. We have seen during 2020 the damage that this virus can do when people are in close contact with each other. The new variant is significantly more transmissible and is becoming the dominant strain across the country – more places have now joined Oxfordshire and our neighbouring areas in Tier 4.

“Unless we all take personal responsibility as individuals and families in the early weeks of 2021, we will create a deeply deteriorating situation in January. This means putting even more pressure on our NHS at its busiest time of year.

 “I continue to urge everyone to adhere to the new tier 4 rules and to take every single precaution. We need to protect ourselves, our communities our families and our work colleagues in the coming weeks before the vaccine is widely enough in circulation to begin to have an effect. Please do not let your guard slip.”

Current cases

The latest data shows that the virus is continuing to spread rapidly in the county. The weekly rate currently stands at 338.2 per 100,000. The rise is particularly concerning among the over 60s, where cases are continuing to rise in all parts of the county. Hospital admissions are increasing rapidly as a result.

The highest rate in Oxfordshire is in Cherwell which stands at 475.7 cases per 100,000.

What are the tier 4 rules?

• Stay at home, except for permitted reasons. This includes shopping for food and other essentials, exercise, education, childcare, collecting prescriptions, medical appointments, essential work, and to attend a place of worship.
• Everyone who can work from home should do so.
• You cannot meet other people indoors or in a private garden, unless you live with them or they are part of your support bubble.
• You can exercise or meet in a public outdoor place with people you live with or your support bubble (or as part of a childcare bubble), or with one other person at a safe social distance.
• You must not travel to other areas, other than for legally permitted reasons, to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
• Shops selling non-essential goods and market stalls not selling food must close.
• Cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs must close but they can serve takeaways, click and collect and delivery orders.
• Personal care, hair and beauty salons must close, as should tattoo, massage and spa venues.
• Entertainment venues, indoor attractions and leisure facilities must close.
• Clinically extremely vulnerable people are advised to stay at home as much as possible, except to go outdoors for exercise or to attend health appointments. If they cannot work from home, they are advised not to go to work and claim any support where eligible.

Further information can be found at www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-4-stay-at-home

Clinically extremely vulnerable people

Clinically extremely vulnerable people are advised to stay at home as much as possible, except to go outdoors for exercise or to attend health appointments. If they cannot work from home, they are advised not to go to work and can claim any support where eligible.

Libraries and cultural services

The Oxfordshire Museum and Oxfordshire History Centre have closed. The county’s libraries will also close but some will provide a limited number of services, including IT access, which must be booked, online services, home library visits and click and collect.

Registration Services

In line with national guidance the county council’s Registration Service is only conducting wedding or civil partnership ceremonies in exceptional circumstances such as the iIlness of a couple or member of family due to attend ceremony. This includes a military deployment at short notice, life threatening surgery or debilitating illness as well as for couples where one of them is seriously ill and not expected to recover.

Tier 4 is the highest alert level in the national four-tier system, and it means that Oxfordshire residents must stay at home, except for a limited number of purposes. These include essential work that cannot be done from home, buying food, taking exercise, or getting medical treatment. In tier 4, you cannot meet other people socially indoors, unless you live with them or are part of a support bubble.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “We are in a very serious situation, which means that people are once again being told to stay at home. The new variant of COVID-19 spreads extremely quickly and these rules are being applied for our own safety and protection. The numbers of cases across the county have risen very steeply and we have also seen sharp rises in hospital admissions.

“When we compare our current situation with that of just a few weeks ago, we can clearly see how quickly things can change and how aggressively the virus can spread if we let our guard down even by a fraction. We have seen during 2020 that this virus thrives on human contact. That seems to be even more the case with the new variant, which is 70% more transmissible and is increasingly becoming the dominant strain across the country.

“Tier 4 is a stark warning that we need to be extra vigilant. Unless we all take personal responsibility as individuals and families throughout the coming weeks, we risk creating a situation in the early weeks of 2021 that will see further steep rises in the number of cases at exactly the time of year when viruses thrive. This means putting even more pressure on our NHS at its busiest time of year.

“The COVID vaccine has started to be rolled out to the over 80s and health and care staff across Oxfordshire. However, it will be some way into 2021 before this begins to provide protection to larger numbers of the population and make a material difference to the overall situation.

“I would therefore urge everyone to adhere to the new tier 4 rules and to take every precaution. We need to protect ourselves, our communities and the NHS as we enter 2021.”

Current cases

The number of cases in Oxfordshire stood at 236.5 cases per 100,000 of the population as of December 18. This represents a rise of 86% since December 11. There were 1,636 cases up to December 18 compared to 878 in the week ending December 11.

What are the tier 4 rules?

• Stay at home, except for permitted reasons. This includes shopping for food and other essentials, exercise, education, childcare, collecting prescriptions, medical appointments, essential work, and to attend a place of worship.
• Everyone who can work from home should do so.
• You cannot meet other people indoors or in a private garden, unless you live with them or they are part of your support bubble.
• You can exercise or meet in a public outdoor place with people you live with or your support bubble (or as part of a childcare bubble), or with one other person at a safe social distance.
• You must not travel to other areas, other than for legally permitted reasons, to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
• Shops selling non-essential goods and market stalls not selling food must close.
• Cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs must close but they can serve takeaways, click and collect and delivery orders.
• Personal care, hair and beauty salons must close, as should tattoo, massage and spa venues.
• Entertainment venues, indoor attractions and leisure facilities must close.
• Clinically extremely vulnerable people are advised to stay at home as much as possible, except to go outdoors for exercise or to attend health appointments. If they cannot work from home, they are advised not to go to work and claim any support where eligible.

Further information can be found at www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-4-stay-at-home

Clinically extremely vulnerable people

Clinically extremely vulnerable people are advised to stay at home as much as possible, except to go outdoors for exercise or to attend health appointments. If they cannot work from home, they are advised not to go to work and can claim any support where eligible.

Libraries and cultural services

The Oxfordshire Museum and Oxfordshire History Centre will need to close. The county’s libraries will also close but some will provide a limited number of services, including IT access, which must be booked, online services, home library visits and click and collect.

Registration Services

In line with national guidance the county council’s Registration Service will only be conducting wedding or civil partnership ceremonies in exceptional circumstances such as the iIlness of a couple or member of family due to attend ceremony. This would also include a military deployment at short notice, life threatening surgery or debilitating illness as well as for couples where one of them is seriously ill and not expected to recover.

The Government has confirmed that Oxfordshire will remain at the tier 2 ‘high’ alert level for the next two weeks as part of the national system of restrictions in place to combat the virus. The next review of the tier system is expected to take place on 30 December.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “Christmas is now close. It is a time for enjoyment, but we need to adapt so that we can enjoy ourselves without giving COVID-19 the chance to join the party. We have seen that this virus thrives on human contact - the rules exist to stop it spreading.

“Tier 2 status reflects our current situation locally, but in the past 7 days alone cases have increased by almost 50 per cent in Oxfordshire. So we’re far from out of the woods and we could easily find ourselves in tier 3 in the new year unless we take care now. We have seen that our neighbours in Buckinghamshire and Berkshire have been moved to tier 3. That is a clear warning. COVID-19 will not be taking a break for Christmas.

“Clearly different rules apply between December 23 and 27, when up to three households can form an exclusive Christmas bubble. However, until then, you must not mix indoors with other households unless they’re part of your support bubble. This means you can’t go out for a meal with friends or invite people over for Christmas drinks.

“Unless we all take personal responsibility as individuals and families throughout the coming weeks, we risk creating a situation in January that will see steeply rising numbers of cases at exactly the time of year when viruses thrive. This means putting even more pressure on our NHS at its busiest time of year. We need to protect ourselves and the NHS as we enter 2021.

“The vaccine continues to be a source of good news and we have seen people in Oxfordshire begin the process of being vaccinated. However, it will be some way into the new year before this begins to provide protection to larger numbers of the population and make a material difference to the overall situation.

“We therefore all need to be extra vigilant in the run-up to Christmas and to think carefully about our plans over the festive period. It is up to all of us to stop the spread.”

Oxfordshire’s COVID statistics

The most recent figures for Oxfordshire (week ending December 11) saw the number of cases at 862 compared with 579 in the previous week. This is 124.6 cases per 100,000 compared to 83.7 per 100,000 for the week ending December 4.

What does tier 2 mean?

• There should be no mixing of households indoors apart from support bubbles. The rule of six applies outdoors.
• Pubs and bars must close unless operating as restaurants. Hospitality venues can only serve alcohol with substantial meals. Venues must stop taking orders at 10pm and must close by 11pm.
• People should reduce the number of journeys they make and walk or cycle if possible.
• Everyone who can work from home should do so

Further information is available at www.gov.uk/guidance/local-restriction-tiers-what-you-need-to-know

Carers and frontline health and social care staff are reminded of the importance of ensuring that they get their flu jab at the earliest possible opportunity this winter.

In light of the risk of flu and COVID-19 co-circulating this winter, the national flu immunisation programme will be absolutely essential to protecting vulnerable people and supporting the resilience of the health and care system.

Cllr Lawrie Stratford, Oxfordshire County Council’s Lead Member for Adult Social Care, said: “There is still time to get your flu jab if you have not already done so.

“Flu is not the same as getting a cold. It can seriously affect your health and the risks of developing complications are greater for some people. Healthy individuals usually recover within two to seven days, but for some the disease can lead to a stay in hospital, permanent disability or even death.

“With the added risk of COVID-19, it’s more important than ever that those who work in health and social care, or those with caring duties get vaccinated.”

Those eligible for a free NHS vaccination, should contact their local GP or pharmacy. Some Oxfordshire pharmacies offer a bookable and walk-in service, with costs ranging between £13 to £15 for those not eligible for a free vaccination.

Children aged two and three can have a free, quick and painless nasal spray vaccine at their GP surgery.

In addition, children in primary school and those in year seven can have the nasal spray vaccine via the school nurse service.

Ansaf Asaf, Director of Public Health at Oxfordshire County Council said: “It’s more important than ever that everybody eligible gets a free flu vaccination this winter. Young children don’t have to get an injection, and instead can get a quick, painless nasal spray.

“By ensuring that young children get their vaccinations, we can also help to protect our older and more vulnerable friends and family members by reducing the risk of transmission.”

Dr Ed Capo-Bianco, Urgent Care lead at Oxfordshire CCG, said; “Flu can be serious for young children, so help protect them from the illness with one simple nasal spray. It is free, fast and painless. Children are also super-spreaders of the flu; by vaccinating them we can reduce the risk of transmission to frail older people and those in ‘at risk’ groups.”

Emma Leaver, Oxford Health Service Director, said: “Protection against flu is one of the best things you can do this winter to help keep your child healthy and I would urge parents of young children to take up the free offer. It’s a painfree nasal spray that is administered easily to young children, so no injections.

“Oxford Health is playing a leading role in protecting older children and, at the moment, we are carrying out 68,000 flu immunisations in schools over a 10 week period. Be sure to fill in the online consent forms so your children can receive the immunisation they need.”

“I also urge parents or carers to give consent for their child to have the nasal spray flu vaccine if they are attending primary school.”

More Information

This year, the NHS is aiming to vaccinate around 4.5 million people in the South East – up from 2.6 million last winter – to help prevent the spread of flu. For the first time, children in school Year 7, and household contacts and carers of those on the NHS Shielded Patient List, are all eligible for the free vaccination. The full list of those who are eligible for a free flu vaccine on the NHS is below:

• People aged 65 years and over
• Patients aged from six months to 65 years in clinical ‘at risk’ groups (see below)
• Pregnant women
• Children aged 2 and 3
• Children in primary school and Year 7
• People in long-stay residential care homes
• Social care and hospice workers who provide direct patient contact
• Health and social care staff working in residential/nursing homes
• Patients on the NHS shielded patient list
• Household contacts of carers and those on the NHS shielded patient list

More information on the flu vaccination.

Oxfordshire County Council and the county’s five district councils will work to contact people that the NHS test and trace national system is unable to reach.

The local system does not replace the national system which already reaches the large majority of cases. It will complement the existing well-established arrangements and will seek to reach people the national system has not managed to reach.

 Where local Oxfordshire County Council call handlers are still unable to contact people, trained staff from the City and district councils will visit cases at home and deliver letters explaining why the Council is trying to get in touch and asking people to contact the call centre.

People contacted will be advised to isolate, talked through how to access local support when isolating, and asked about details of their close contacts so these can then be followed up by the national NHS Test and Trace team.

The service will run seven days a week with calls coming from the council using a local (01865) phone number. Text messages will also be sent to people with mobile phones telling them to expect a call.

Oxfordshire County Council Public Health Consultant Adam Briggs said: “Our local contact tracing system provides another layer of support to help control COVID-19 in Oxfordshire

“If you are contacted, it will be a locally based person on the other end of the phone. They will talk to you about what you need to do to protect your friends and family whilst isolating, and about what support is available nearby.

“The overall aim is simple – to limit the transmission of COVID-19. By isolating when you have symptoms, getting a test, and picking up the phone when we call, we will give ourselves an even better chance to #stopthespread.”

The team, which is a joint initiative by all Oxfordshire councils, and backed by Government funding, looks to ensure that businesses are complying with the rules, to give the public much-needed peace of mind when out and about.

New penalties for breaking the coronavirus rules have come into force nationally, with fines of up to £10,000 for rule breakers. Fines for not wearing masks or not following rules have increased to £200 for the first offence.

The team will be working across Oxfordshire, alongside the existing city and district environmental health teams. Where data shows an emerging risk in a locality, the team will prioritise that area, increasing the impact of local intervention measures.

They will be out and about across the county to ensure that local businesses are continuing to properly abide by regulations, such as the 10pm curfew on pubs, bars and restaurants.

Where necessary, the team will be able to take enforcement action against those who do not comply, with the support of Thames Valley Police.

Keeping infection rates down

Ansaf Azhar, director of public health at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “We have seen nationally the impact of high infection rates resulting in local lockdowns. Our COVID secure teams will allow us to ensure that we can better help businesses comply with the latest Government guidance, better enforce the rules, and help to prevent us from seeing the kind of restrictions that we have seen elsewhere nationally.”

Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, said: “We all want to keep infection rates down in Oxford and avoid the need to add any further restrictions locally. The COVID Secure Team has a vital role helping businesses and residents comply.

“Most people and businesses are trying hard to stick to the rules, but it only takes a small number of people or businesses breaking the rules for the spread to rapidly increase. The team is there as a constant reminder that the rules are being followed, and enforcement will be used if necessary. Until medical science finds a solution, controlling the spread is down to how we behave and we all need to protect each other.”

Cllr Andrew McHugh, lead member for health and wellbeing at Cherwell District Council, said: “This new COVID Secure Team builds on council officers’ local knowledge and expertise to make sure residents and businesses are in no doubt about what they need to do to stop the spread of the virus.

“The team will be a firm but friendly presence; they are there to inform and advise in the instance, but we take the risk coronavirus poses extremely seriously and people who fail to respect the rules will be left in no doubt that we are ready to use these new powers if necessary.”

Cllr Sue Cooper, Leader of South Oxfordshire District Council, said: "While the rate of transmission and the overall cases of Coronavirus thankfully remain low in South Oxfordshire it would only take one or two reckless individuals or premises to cause a problem. Therefore, I'm pleased that we now have this additional resource in place to assist our Environmental Health officers in ensuring businesses understand and follow the new rules."

Cllr Emily Smith, Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council said: "I know everyone is desperate for things to return to normal as quickly as possible. However, until we have a widely available vaccine the only way for us to achieve this is to significantly reduce the infection rate across the country. This means everyone following the new laws and our new COVID secure team working in partnership with the existing district resource will help to ensure that happens across Oxfordshire.”

Cllr Michele Mead, Cabinet Member for Health at West Oxfordshire District Council, added: “Above all, this team is here to help residents and businesses understand their obligations. Understandably there is some confusion as guidance has changed in recent weeks.

“The aim is to ensure that everyone follows the rules and that way we have a much better chance of keeping infection rates as low as possible in West Oxfordshire.”

Update on COVID rates in Oxford and Oxfordshire

The COVID secure team is a timely proactive step in light of rising cases both nationally and locally.

Ongoing discussions are taking place locally, regionally and nationally as regards the number of COVID-19 cases in Oxford. A very close eye is being kept on trends and data and if decisions are made as regards the introduction of any new measures in coming days or weeks they will be shared quickly with the appropriate advice.

Oxfordshire County Council’s Public Health Director Ansaf Azhar said: “Numbers have risen all over the nation following the technical glitch in recording cases at national level and the situation a week ago and before. There are other parts of the country with cases that are in the 300-500 cases per 100,000 range. That’s well above Oxford and Oxfordshire generally.

“Although Oxford’s case rate has risen a lot as a result of the much-reported national issues, the city is ranked 67^th in the country. The cases remain predominantly in the 18-24 age range.

“For now the strong message from me remains to ask people to take responsibility for their own actions as families, individuals, colleagues and neighbours. Keep a distance, wash your hands, wear a face covering and observe the rule of six. The only way we can drive down the number of COVID cases is through collective action on the part of everyone of all ages.”

Following the simple steps below will make a huge difference in the fight against common colds and the more serious flu virus:

• CATCH IT – Always carry tissues and use them to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze
• BIN IT – Dispose of used tissues as soon as possible
• KILL IT – Clean your hands with soap and water as soon as you can and make sure you wash them frequently

There is still time to have a free NHS flu vaccination if you are eligible to help protect you against flu – the vaccine also reduces the risk of the illness spreading.

The vaccine is available for pregnant women and those aged 65 and over, patients with a long term health condition like asthma or diabetes, and if are a carer – children aged 2 and 3 can have the nasal spray vaccine which is fast and painless.

Ask your GP, pharmacist or midwife for advice on the flu vaccine.If you follow the steps above then it will help you and your family stay safe and well this winter.

For more information on the NHS flu vaccination see here

A new initiative that was trialled at the Horton has been helping more people regain their independence and get home quickly and safely.

The Home Assessment Reablement Team (HART), a multi-disciplinary team who provide care and support to patients when they leave hospital, are working on a therapy-led ‘discharge to assess’ initiative which is aimed at people who do not need to stay in hospital, but who need extra support in the short term to enable them to go home.

The initiative helps identify these patients earlier, meaning they spend less time in hospital and are then assessed in their familiar home environment to help plan for both their short and longer-term needs.

Some of the support HART offers includes enabling independence in daily life, like helping people to learn to wash and dress independently again, and cook their own meals.

Following a trial at the Horton General Hospital last year, the initiative is now also underway at the John Radcliffe Hospital and has now been rolled out across Oxfordshire. Part of a Trust-wide programme with a focus on continuous improvement, the initiative will help support patients through the winter months.

To date, HART staff have supported over 600 patients through the ‘discharge to assess’ initiative. Over 480 of them have since been discharged from HART’s care, with over 50% of these people now living fully independently following their treatment, and the other patients receiving ongoing support in the community.

One Banbury patient who was treated by the team said: "The team really went out on a limb for me – they really could not have been kinder. They always had a smile on their face and couldn’t do enough for me."

Sam Foster, Chief Nursing Officer at the Trust, said: "This initiative is a really wonderful development for our patients. The work the team do is so valuable, and by changing the location that we make decisions about on-going care needs to a person’s own home rather than in a hospital ward, we can make sure more people are confident and happy in their homes following discharge from hospital.

"Once hospital care is complete, many people want to be back home as soon as possible, which is completely understandable. Being in hospital for longer than needed often leads to a deterioration in people’s general condition, and can even increase their long-term care needs.

"By helping people regain their independence and continuing our 'home first' approach, the team can continue to deliver safe, effective care and support in the most appropriate and often happiest setting for our patients."

Stephen Chandler, Director of Adult Services at Oxfordshire County Council, said: "We’re delighted that HART at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust have taken this new 'discharge to assess' approach forward, and we were really pleased to recently offer them a 'Good' accreditation.

"Patient safety and care is at the heart of all that our organisations do, and by bringing treatment closer to home we can make sure that patients are happier and more confident in their own environment, which is an essential part of a successful recovery."

Pictured: some of the HART staff helping patients home this winter pictured with Chief Executive Officer Dr Bruno Holthof.

Brought to you in partnership with Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust and Oxfordshire County Council, Age UK Oxfordshire is encouraging older people to create a personalised winter plan.

As we get older, it can be harder to stay healthy in winter, so it is vital that everyone is well prepared when the weather takes a turn for the worse and the season for flu, coughs and colds really kicks in. 

‘Staying Well This Winter’ is full of tips and advice on how to look after ourselves and others.

This might include: 

• having a list of emergency phone numbers by your phone
• getting repeat prescriptions in plenty of time
• having a free flu vaccination if you are in an ‘at risk’ group.

This useful booklet also includes a handy checklist of items you may need as part of your winter plan. 

Ruth Swift, Head of Community Development at Age UK Oxfordshire, said: “We hope that you will find our winter booklet useful. Please pass it on to a friend or neighbour so that as many of us as possible can stay well this winter.” 

You can download the free booklet of information via www.ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire. Alternatively, you can receive a printed copy by contacting Age UK Oxfordshire by phone on 01235 849 434 or email network@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk. 

Pregnant women, those aged over 65 and children aged 2 and 3 are also eligible for the free flu vaccine.Dr Ed Capo-Bianco, Urgent Care Lead at Oxfordshire CCG said: “Eligible patients and in particular adults with an underlying health condition still have time to book an appointment with their GP practice for a free NHS flu vaccination if they haven’t already had a jab.”

Ed said: “Flu is not the same as getting a cold. It can seriously affect your health and the risks of developing complications are greater for some people. Healthy individuals usually recover within two to seven days, but for some the disease can lead to a stay in hospital, permanent disability or even death.”

Parents are asked to get their children aged 2 and 3 vaccinated against flu with a simple and quick nasal spray at their GP practice. Children are super-spreaders of flu, and by vaccinating them it reduces the risk of transmission to frail and elderly groups.

The free flu vaccine is available to patients who have one of the following conditions:

• heart problem
• chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including bronchitis, emphysema or severe asthma
• kidney disease
• lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment)
• liver diseaseo stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
• diabetes
• neurological condition e.g. multiple sclerosiso morbid obesity (BMI over 40)
• cerebral palsy or a learning disability.

For more information on the NHS flu vaccine visit: https://www.oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk/

These extended hours appointments allow people to see a GP or other healthcare professional at a time that better suits them. 

People who contact their GP surgery or the NHS 111 service may be offered an extended hours appointment at their own surgery or at a nearby practice. Or, they can request one if it is more convenient.

Dr Ed Capo-Bianco, Urgent Care lead at Oxfordshire CCG, said: “Extended hours make it easier to see a GP at times that are more convenient for people who work late or have other commitments. It means patients can see a GP, or other medical professional, for prompt advice and treatment at times that suits them, even though it may not be at their own surgery.” 

Ed said: “This additional capacity allows GPs to see more vulnerable patients, especially older people more promptly reducing the risk of them being admitted to hospital. And, as we enter the busy winter period, evening and weekend appointments will help to relieve some of the pressure that practices are experiencing during usual opening hours, helping GPs to meet the increasing demand for appointments. 

“However, patients can also help themselves stay well this winter by getting a free NHS flu vaccination if they are eligible. And, by having a personal winter plan ready to help prevent coughs and colds from getting worse. It’s about being prepared and tackling illnesses at the earliest opportunity.” 

A winter plan could include: 

• Having a free NHS flu vaccination if you are eligible
• Getting help early before your cough or cold worsens
• Getting repeat prescriptions in plenty of time before bank holidays
• Finding out where your local minor injuries unit is located
• Seeking advice from your local pharmacy
• Keeping an eye on elderly or frail friends, neighbours and relatives 

You can watch a short film which explains how your high street pharmacist can help keep you well this winter:  

These patients - including children and adults - are more at risk of the complications of flu which could result in a stay in hospital or even death.

Dr Ed Capo-Bianco, Urgent Care Lead at Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “It’s very important that patients who have an underlying health condition don’t delay and have a free flu vaccination at their GP practice or a pharmacist.”

Ed said: “Healthy individuals usually recover within two to seven days from flu, but for some, especially those with a long term condition the illness can lead to a stay in hospital, permanent disability or even death.”

You are eligible for the free flu vaccine if you have the following conditions:

• Heart problem

• Chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including bronchitis, emphysema or severe asthma

• Kidney disease

• Lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment)

• Liver diseaseo stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)

• Diabetes

• Neurological condition e.g. multiple sclerosis

• Morbid obesity (BMI over 40)

• Cerebral palsy or a learning disability.

You can watch a short video of an Oxfordshire patient who has diabetes, urging eligible people to have a free NHS flu vaccination:

Who else is eligible for an NHS flu vaccination?

People aged over 65, pregnant women, children in primary school and youngsters aged 2 and 3 years old.

For more information on the NHS flu vaccination visit http://www.oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk/

Kiren added: “Having a flu vaccination if you are eligible, washing your hands after being out and not missing your normal regular medications can help prevent illness. If you do fall ill, a well-stocked medicine cabinet and advice from your local pharmacist or NHS 111 can help. NHS 111 can now be accessed online via a mobile phone, tablet or laptop to get advice even quicker at NHS.111.UK. 

"Obviously there will be times when people become seriously unwell and seeing a healthcare professional is the right thing to do. But by taking a few simple steps and putting together your winter plan you may help yourself to avoid admission to hospital."

Watch a short video on how your local pharmacist can help treat coughs and colds and stop them getting worse:

Personal winter plans should include:

• Having a free NHS flu vaccination if you are eligible

• Getting help early before your condition worsens

• Getting repeat prescriptions in plenty of time before bank holidays

• Finding out where your local minor injuries unit is located

• Seeking advice from your local pharmacist

• Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet

• Stocking up on winter food supplies

• Getting your boiler serviced

• Keeping your home heated to 18C

• Having a list of emergency phone numbers handy by your phone• Keeping an eye on elderly or frail friends, neighbours and relatives

You can read the Public Health England leaflet ‘Keep Warm Keep Well’ which provides advice on staying well in cold weather and covers issues such as financial help, healthy lifestyle, flu jabs and heating: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/keep-warm-keep-well-leaflet-gives-advice-on-staying-healthy-in-cold-weather

Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxfordshire County Council, South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS), and Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust have all embarked on their annual flu programmes - vaccinating the thousands of workers who look after you, your family and friends.

By vaccinating front line staff, each organisation can stop people from catching the virus and passing it on to the sick and vulnerable. It also means health and social care organisations can be more resilient during the coming busy winter months.

Healthcare workers in hospitals and out in the community are eligible for free quadrivalent jabs – which contain four strains of flu to provide maximum cover.

Oxford Health provides physical, mental health and social care for people of all ages across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Wiltshire and Bath and North East Somerset and aims to vaccinate more than 5,000 of its frontline workforce.

For a second year staff and patients at Oxford Health have collaborated to produce a video encouraging every staff member to take part in the immunisation programme.

The Grease-themed ‘It’s the jab that I want’ film stars, among others, Chief Nurse Marie Crofts who is leading the Oxford Health campaign and staff from Witney Community Hospital.

There are also appearances from many other workers from the Trust’s 150 sites and cameo appearances from SCAS staff, who have bases in community hospitals. Watch it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGgqC3BEMhc

SCAS, the ambulance service for Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Hampshire, and Oxfordshire County Council - with its army of social workers in communities and hospitals - are also working to increase vaccination rates.

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is also vaccinating their frontline staff to protect patients and their families.

With an array of posters and myth busting messages, all partner organisations are holding staff flu clinics and are working hard to help staff understand the importance of getting vaccinated to protect themselves and their patients.

• Flu is a serious health risk – it’s highly transmissible and is not a bad cold
• The quadrivalent jab does not contain a live virus and will not give you flu.
• You can be a carrier of flu without displaying symptoms.

Last year, flu killed 312 Britons*, while a total of 2,924 people in the UK were admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) or high-dependency unit (HDU) because of flu. Most had not been immunised according to Public Health England.

Marie Crofts, Chief Nurse at Oxford Health, said: "With fresh arrivals of the vaccine we have started our special clinics and drop-in sessions for frontline staff. We work in a caring profession, so let’s all make sure we have a jab - and look after each other as well as our patients, friends and family."

Karen Fuller, Deputy Director of Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “The health and wellbeing of our staff is a priority. By encouraging frontline staff to have flu vaccinations we can ensure they are immunised as part of our winter preparation. This will support the health and social care system and also reduce the risk of passing the virus onto the people we support, which is essential. The council’s commitment to working with system partners as part of this campaign protects our staff and supports them to stay well throughout the winter months.”

Professor Helen Young, Executive Director of Patient Care and Service Transformation at SCAS, said: "Every year, SCAS focuses significant time and resources making it as easy as possible for staff to get their flu jabs.

"Our emergency 999 and patient transport service staff interact with some very unwell patients and those with serious medical conditions, so the vaccine is crucial to protect such patients from the life-threatening complications flu can bring, and minimise the risk of staff unwittingly passing on the flu bug to them.

"By having their flu jab, our staff are demonstrating their commitment to ensure our 999, NHS 111 and patient transport service can be operated as efficiently and effectively as possible during the peak period of winter demand."

Sam Foster, Chief Nursing Officer at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “By vaccinating frontline staff, each organisation can stop people from catching the virus from patients and passing it onto the other patients or their own family members.

“It also means health and social care organisations can be more resilient in terms of reducing the risk of staff being absent due to being off sick with the flu during the coming busy winter months.”

For more information about the flu vaccine, read here: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/winter-oxfordshire/be-healthy-during-winter