PUBLIC health chiefs have highlighted a spring vaccination offensive as the number of Covid deaths in Cheshire East soared by over 600 per cent.

Those sadly passing away 28 days after a positive test in the borough numbered 50 last week (April 2-8), an increase of 43 on the previous seven days.

The number of patients being treated for the virus by Mid Cheshire Hospitals is also high (75 on April 5).

Health chiefs say the steady rise in recent deaths is a reminder Covid has not vanished and they are urging residents to take steps to make themselves, and others around them, as safe as possible from infection.

Booster vaccination appointments are available now for those aged 75 plus, residents of care homes and those aged 12 plus who have a weakened immune system

You can also get first, second or booster vaccination locations locally at Parish Hall at Church Walk in Nantwich on these dates: Tuesday, April 19 (10am-3pm) Thursday, May 5, Wednesday, May 18 (1:30pm-3pm) and Monday, May 30 (11:30am-3pm).

Pfizer and Moderna jabs are available, including boosters.

Cheshire East Council's public health consultant, Professor Rod Thomson, said: "Every Covid-related death in the borough is to be regretted and our thoughts go out to the families of those involved.

"Infection rates remain high at more than 800 per 100,000, which is above the national average.

"Cheshire East has a high proportion of older residents, and we are aware that some people who have sadly died were already receiving end of life care for other medical conditions, with Covid being a contributing factor.

"While vaccination rates within the borough are high, the number of people testing positive for Covid highlights the importance of everyone continuing to take measures to protect themselves and their loved ones.

"Sadly, the high rates of infection mean there continues to be deaths from Covid, underlying the vital importance of the spring vaccination booster campaign that is underway in the borough.

"This focuses on people aged 75 and over, care home residents and the medically vulnerable. Residents eligible under the spring booster programme will be contacted by the NHS."

For more details of the spring booster campaign go here.