COUNCIL and health leaders are calling on every resident in the Bradford District to play their part in tackling Covid-19 to help avoid a local lockdown.

Bradford is starting to see a rise in infection rates again and is now an outlier on the Government’s watch list. Bradford Council says this brings a real concern that if rates rise further in the district it could prompt local lockdown measures, similar to those imposed on Leicester, which would have a drastic impact on businesses and the economy.

In a statement this afternoon Bradford Council said: “Nationally, lockdown measures have eased, but there is a real fear that some people might think this means the pandemic is over and that Covid-19 is no longer a threat. This is not the case. Covid-19 is still around, is still infecting people, and is still killing people.

“The Council is ramping up its response to a possible Covid-19 spike, and this week will see hundreds of wardens and council staff out in city and town centres, neighbourhoods and visiting premises to urge them to stay safe.

“The Council is also talking with the government as to whether it is safe to implement any further local easing of restrictions that were due to take place on 1 August, meaning bowling alleys, boxing gyms and some other sports sites may not be able to reopen as planned. This decision would need to be made by the Secretary of State.”

Health leaders are also advising people who have been shielding to continue to be extra vigilant and cautious given the increased infection rates.

The council says Bradford District has taken strong measures to tackle the virus and currently has the third highest Covid-19 testing rate of authorities in Yorkshire and Humber. But it is the action of every resident that will be important in keeping infection rates low.

Individuals and families can play their part by following the Covid Code:

• KEEP YOUR DISTANCE: Keep at least 2 metres (3 steps) away from anyone you don’t live with.

• FACE COVERINGS: Always wear a face covering when in a shop, on public transport and when you can’t follow the 2 metre rule

• HYGIENE IS KEY: Wash your hands with soap and warm water often.

• NO HANDSHAKE, NO HUGS, HANDS OFF: Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• THINK OF OTHERS: Cough or sneeze into your elbow.

• GET TESTED: If you have a high temperature, a new continuous cough or a loss/change in your sense of taste or smell.

• STAY SAFE: No more than two households together indoors and six people from different households outdoors.

• STAY INDOORS: Isolate at home for 7 days if you have symptoms and 14 days if you live with someone who has symptoms.

• NO EVENTS: Keep away from crowds and places where people gather together.

• DON’T SPIT: if you are infected, spitting will increase the chance of the virus and other germs spreading.

• TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF: GPs, hospitals and other services are #StillHereToHelp

More information and advice on coronavirus (Covid-19) is available on the council’s website. https://www.bradford.gov.uk/health/health-advice-and-support/coronavirus-covid-19-advice/

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council, said: “Covid kills, let’s not be in any doubt about this. This is a high-stakes position and to avoid a local lockdown we all need to do what we can to prevent a further spike in Covid-19 infections. We all know what the impact of this would be on people’s health, their livelihoods, and our economy.

“No one wants more lockdown measures so we want everyone to follow the Covid Code. Wash your hands, keep the right distance, wear a mask, and follow the guidance on family visiting. Let’s lock down Covid, not let Covid lock us down.”