CUMBRIA'S director of public health says the drop in the number of coronavirus cases in the county is "very small" but "very welcome".

Colin Cox was responding to the latest figures that show there were 55 new cases in Cumbria this week – down from 59 the previous week.

It comes as the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust - which operates the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle and the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven recorded two new deaths from the virus in the last two days (Tuesday and Wednesday). Mr Cox said there is no change to the local public health advice.

“While this week we have seen a small decrease – I must stress it is very small but that said it is very welcome," he explained.

“We are still not seeing the levels in Cumbria that have prompted the tightening of measures seen in other parts of the country this week such as Aberdeen.

“Sadly, as we have seen from media coverage this week the virus is still circulating and being passed between local people in the community, so we must not think that the risk is going away – even though we have seen a decrease in numbers this week.

"Only by continued vigilance and following the basic public health guidance will we continue to prevent the number of people being infected.

“As before we are urging people living in, and visiting, Cumbria to adhere to social distancing guidelines, wash your hands regularly and to provide good quality contact details to any venues you visit.

"If you are getting a taxi we would also advise you to wear a mask and wear them in shops and other indoor settings in line with the latest guidance from government.”

The key public health messages remain:

  • Wash or sanitise hands regularly
  • Observe social distancing rules
  • Wear face masks or coverings in enclosed public spaces
  • If you have symptoms, self-isolate and get tested
  • Follow advice to self-isolate if asked