‘Final warning bell’ for everyone to pull together to stop the Coronavirus

That’s the message tonight as the Tees Valley – including Hartlepool - was designated by the Government as an ‘Area of Enhanced Support’ following further rapid rises in Coronavirus cases this week.

Yesterday there were a further 19 cases in Hartlepool, making a total of 101 over the past seven days – up from 47 for the seven days before that.

The move to an Area of Enhanced Support is an escalation of Hartlepool’s status from when it was placed on the Government’s watch list as an ‘Area of Concern’ earlier this month.

Being classed as an Area of Enhanced Support means Hartlepool will receive more help from the Government, including further additional testing.

Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Whilst this doesn’t mean further lockdown restrictions at this stage, make no mistake - it does sound the final warning bell, and each and every one of us needs to take immediate action to stop the spread of the virus.

“The increasingly rapid rise in cases in Hartlepool is exceptionally worrying and we are now starting to see an increase in cases among older people, in addition to the young.

“We also know that a lot of the infections are being passed on by people visiting other households, and whilst the Government has not intervened and banned household visits in Hartlepool, we all have a responsibility to follow the Government’s guidance on household visits, including the ‘rule of 6’ and social distancing.

“I would also remind people once again that they can very easily pass on the virus to older and more vulnerable members of the community – like nana and grandad - with potentially fatal results.

“Please remember - HANDS, FACE, SPACE - protect yourself and those you love. Simple steps, but they save lives.”

To stay safe and help stop the spread of the virus:

• Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds
• Wear a face covering (unless you're exempt) - this includes in public places and on public transport - view the Government's list of places you must wear a face covering
• Keep your distance (2m if possible) from people you don't live with or who are not part of your 'bubble'
• Observe the ‘rule of six’
• Download the new NHS Covid-19 app on your mobile phone – full details here. 
• Self-isolate and get a test as soon as you think you may have symptoms (Visit nhs.uk/coronavirus or call 119).

Also, anyone who has concerns about businesses not following social distancing rules should contact the Council’s Public Protection team on 01429 284024 or email public.protection@hartlepool.gov.uk