New Covid-19 cases in Devon highest in groups least likely to be vaccinated

Infection rates are highest in the 0-19s across Devon, but are still lower than they were a month ago.

Only one person of those aged over 80, someone in their 90s in North Devon, tested positive in the most recent week.

In East Devon, no-one over the age of 29 tested positive in the last week.

Infection rates in East Devon are highest in the 0-19s, with Torbay, Plymouth, Exeter and Teignbridge in the 20-39s – the groups least likely to have been vaccinated and most likely to be mixing.

Across the South West, there are now only 13 patients in hospital – the lowest since 5 September – and for the most recent two days, there have been no new admissions to any of the hospitals.

In terms of hospital deaths, there have been none in any of Devon's hospitals in the last seven days.

Steve Brown, Director of Public Health Devon said: "We have a low coronavirus case rate across Devon, and that is thanks to the effort everyone continues to put in to complying with the restrictions and following the guidance around regular asymptomatic testing, social distancing, hand washing and wearing a face covering when required.

"We need to be cautious though, because outbreaks can and do still happen and when numbers are low, even a small rise can cause a big jump the case rate.

"Make testing part of your regular week. Build it into a routine, and use the lateral flow device tests as well when you know you're likely to be meeting up with friends or family. These tests are so fast now that you will have your result and peace of mind in half an hour. If it comes back positive, then you'll prevent others from catching it by staying home and arranging a confirmatory test."

Where can I get tested?

In Exmouth, the tests are available at the Foxhole Car Park at the following times:

- Tuesday, 11am to 7pm

- Saturday, 9am to 5pm

These tests are for people with no symptoms. If you are under 16, or have symptoms associated with the virus such as a new and continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss or change to your sense of smell, you should not turn up to get a lateral flow test.

If you have symptoms, you should get a PCR test instead.