Covid: the latest data shows 24 areas risk to be plunged into Tier 4

The Cabinet Office minister didn't rule out the possibility that the whole England could be subjected to more severe restrictions of Tier 4

The Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove didn’t rule out the possibility that the whole England could be subjected to more severe restrictions of Tier 4. The latest data shows that 24 areas in particular risk to face the Tier 4 restrictions.

Michael Gove: the whole country could move to Tier 4

The Government suddenly decided to create a new Tier 4 on December 19. The move served the purpose to face a highly contagious new strain of Coronavirus, which was prevalent in southern England.

Today, Michael Gove talked about the possibility to relocate the whole country into Tier 4.

London, most of the South East and the East are currently under strict Tier 4 measures. People are urged to stay at home, and all shops are closed.

The latest data: 24 areas risk the Tier 4 restrictions

About this, an analysis of the latest Coronavirus infection rates found 24 areas in Tier 2 and 3 that could move to Tier 4. Infact, their infection rates are above 300 cases per 100,000 people.

But let’s see more in detail the areas in Tiers 2 and 3 with the highest infection rates:

• Eden, Cumbria. It is currently in Tier 2 and it has a rate of infection equal to 495.7. It is higher than many areas in Tier 4.
• Carlisle (Tier 2). It is also experiencing surging coronavirus numbers, with the infection rate doubling in a week to 330.3.
• Lancashire Burnley (Tier 3). It had an infection rate of 488.1 in the week leading up to December 23.
• Pendle (Tier 3). It recorded a rate of 426.7.
• Wolverhampton (Tier 3). It recorded a rate of 407.8
• Hartlepool (Tier 3). It had a rate of 402.5 in the week leading up to December 23.
• Lincoln (Tier 3). It recorded a rate of 379.7, although that represents a slight fall in infections.
• Ribble Valley (Tier 3). It had a rate of 367.9.
• Oadby and Wigston (Tier 3). They had a rate of 366.6.
• Rugby (Tier 3). It recorded a case rate of 358.9
• Northampton (Tier 3). It recorded a rate of 349.9.

However, It is important to point out the fact that infection rates are not the only way an area’s tier is decided. This explains why there can be areas with higher numbers in a lower tier. Also the amount of patients over 60 testing positive and hospital capacity represent important factors.

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