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New data shows that coronavirus infections among those over 50, who are at higher risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19, are increasing. New cases rose 92 percent among 50-year-olds last week, 72 percent among 60-year-olds and 44 percent among 80-year-olds.
It comes after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the recent surge in infections in the UK was “predominantly” among young people.
But it appears that the majority of new cases are now among those over 50.
Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director of Public Health England, said: “Although younger people continue to account for the majority of new cases, we are now beginning to see worrying signs of infections occurring in older people, who are at much higher risk. getting seriously ill.
“This is a reminder of the continuing risk as the virus spreads across the UK.
“People must continue to abide by the rules of social distancing, wash their hands regularly and cover their faces in closed spaces.
“You should not mix with others when you are unwell.”
Infection rates in England are now doubling weekly, according to research from Imperial College.
The UK reported 3,539 positive coronavirus cases on Friday, up from 2,919 the day before.
The death toll increased by six, bringing the UK total to 41,614.
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8:31 am update: Michael Gove urges people to stay ‘in tune’ with the rules this weekend
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove urged people to act “in step with” the rules this weekend before the “rule of six” takes effect or risk increasing the rate of spread. of the coronavirus.
He told BBC Breakfast: “If people are behaving in a way that is not really online or in tune with the guidelines that have been posted, then they are putting other people at risk.”
“The reason the country’s police chiefs have said they expect people to behave with the proper restraint this weekend is that we don’t want to see the spread of the virus further accelerate.”
Update 8.03: Less than 20% of people in England completely isolate themselves
Fewer than 20 per cent of people in England isolate themselves completely when asked to do so, according to documents released by the government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
The minutes, from an August 27 meeting of the Multidisciplinary Task Force and Completion on Mass Testing, state: “About 20 percent of those who reported COVID-19 symptoms in England report that they completely isolate themselves by staying home.
“Self-isolation rates for other household members are likely to be lower due to physical and practical limitations.
“These rates may be even lower in those who are asymptomatic and receive a positive mass test result, since a lower risk of infection is likely to be perceived.”
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