Government removes Bedford from the coronavirus 'area of concern' watchlist

Today (Friday) the Government announced that Bedford Borough was coming off the coronavirus ‘area of concern’ watchlist.

While welcoming the news and the reduction in coronavirus cases seen in recent days, Bedford Borough Council is urging the public not to get complacent.

Today, there were no new confirmed cases of coronavirus in Bedford.Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “It is good news that we have started to see coronavirus cases reduce, and locally we have started to re-open facilities such as libraries and The Higgins Bedford with stringent infection prevention measures in place, and we are working with Fusion Lifestyle around their opening of local leisure centres.

“But we have all seen across the country that it doesn’t take much for an area to have a sudden increase in cases.

"We are urging people across the Borough not to get complacent; keep staying 2m apart from others, washing your hands and wearing a face covering in busy places, and help slow the spread of coronavirus.”

Cllr Louise Jackson, portfolio holder for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Coronavirus has not gone away, and there have been reports of outbreaks in Bedfordshire. Ahead of this weekend, we are asking you to please act responsibly.

"Coming off the area of concern list is absolutely a step in the right direction but we need people to keep playing their part. Protect your family, your friends, and protect Bedford Borough.

“Getting tested if you have symptoms of coronavirus is key in slowing the spread.

"If you start to experience symptoms of coronavirus: a new persistent cough, a high temperature, or a change of loss of taste or smell, even only mildly- make sure you self-isolate and get tested.”

There are testing facilities in Bedford available 7 days a week, both for people to drive in or walk in and you can order tests from home.

Tests are free and can be booked at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.