Cheshire East Council is urging local residents to stay safe and protect themselves and others -following a rise in Covid-19 infection rates.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) infection survey estimates that 4.5 per cent of residents in Cheshire East tested positive between 12 June and 18 June.

Infection rates in Cheshire East are currently 222 cases per 100,000 people, this an increase of 38 per cent against the previous week.

The is slightly higher than the UK average of 194.4 cases per 100,000 people.

Infection rates in Cheshire East are currently 222 cases per 100,000 people (Cheshire East Council).

The ONS has said that Omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5 are likely to be behind the latest surge across the UK.

They are thought to be the most dominant strains of the virus.

Director of public health at Cheshire East Council, Matt Tyrer told Nub News: "The rise in positive Covid-19 cases recently not only in Cheshire East but in neighbouring areas, is worrying.

"Sadly we are seeing an increase in hospitalisations for people with Covid-19.

Director of public health at Cheshire East Council, Matt Tyrer (Cheshire East Council).

"There are 71 patients being treated with Covid-19 in local hospitals, an increase from 47 the week before."

"The recent surge in cases across the borough is shown across all age groups."

Cheshire East Council say it is crucial for all residents to play their part in keeping infection rates down, to protect ourselves, our families and other residents.

The council say that if you feel unwell and are able to, please work from home and postpone any social events you had planned.

An ONS survery suggests 4.5 per cent of residents in Cheshire East tested positive between 12 June and 18 June (Cheshire East Council).

It also encourages parents not to send your child to school if they feel unwell.

Cheshire East say that good hand hygiene is an effective way of preventing the spread of a virus, so washing your hands regularly and using hand sanitiser is important.

The council has said for residents to consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces and keep your distance from others.

It says these measures will not only reduce our chances of catching or passing on Covid, but also reducing our chances of catching or passing on other infections like colds, flu and vomiting bugs.

Older and more vulnerable residents who are eligible for the Covid-19 booster are encouraged to come forward as soon as they are invited (Getty).

If you feel unwell, check your symptoms against the latest list of Covid symptoms displayed on the government website.

Residents are reminded that it is so important that older and more vulnerable residents who are eligible for the Covid-19 booster come forward as soon as they are invited.

READ MORE: Crewe Market Hall hit by two weekend live music cancellations.

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Crewe Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our town.

Please consider following Crewe Nub News on Facebook or Twitter.