NOW is the time to act to avoid a new peak in infections and a local lockdown, say Cheshire East council chiefs.

The plea to stick to the guidance comes as local lockdowns were imposed on Warrington, Halton, and Merseyside. 

In the seven days to 12 September, there were 100 confirmed coronavirus cases in the borough, a four-fold increase on recent case numbers.

Cllr Sam Corcoran, CEC leader, said: “There has been a rise in infections across the region during the past few weeks and this is something we need to address now to avoid increased restrictions being imposed on Cheshire.

“Covid-19 remains a real threat, even more so now that it’s right on our doorstep. Our best defence is to be rigorous about simple prevention measures – wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, don’t touch your face and maintain social distancing.

“Now is not a time to be complacent, we all must think about the consequences of our actions and carefully consider avoiding situations where we are exposed to other households and larger numbers of people for any length of time.

 “I also want to stress the importance of self-isolating and booking yourself in for a test if you have symptoms.  However, we also know that testing capacity is not adequate and I, along with other council leaders, have called for increased testing capacity for Cheshire and Merseyside.”

The Councils are also putting in place enhanced prevention measures, and will take action through local powers if necessary to protect the public.

All residents are asked to:

  • Keep to the rule of six
  • Wash hands regularly
  • Wear a face covering in places where social distancing may be difficult
  • Social distance by two metres in public

If you have COVID-19 symptoms of high fever, continuous cough and loss of taste or smell, get tested by calling 119 or visit nhs.uk/coronavirus.  If you have a positive test or are alerted by a contact tracer, play your part to protect your community by self-isolating for 10 days or 14 days.