Coronavirus: "We're At A Tipping Point," Says Brighton & Hove City Council

Brighton & Hove City Council say they won't be updating the Covid alert level until they've received government guidance on the new national system.

On October 6th the Covid alert level was moved to 'amber' in Brighton & Hove after the government classified the city as 'medium,' referring to the number of cases of the virus there.

The other levels - high and very high - apply to areas where additional restrictions are in place.

The 'medium' classification indicated national restrictions would stay in place, meaning the 10pm curfew and 'Rule of 6' would continue. 

It reflects the significant and ongoing increase in cases that we have seen in the city since September.

The council website reported  227 confirmed new COVID-19 cases in Brighton & Hove in the seven days up to October 8th (based on data published on October 12).

This is an increase from 119 cases in the previous 7-day period (up to October 1) and more than double the previous week.

Alistair Hill, Director of Public Health, said:

“The ongoing increase in case numbers is very concerning.

"We are seeing cases in all age groups, although it is most common in young people.

"We have seen more cases in students in the past few weeks. Both of the universities are working hard to support students while they self-isolate and prevent the virus spreading. 

“The virus spreads when people and households mix.

"This is not a time to take risks. Covid-19 is a highly infectious virus.

"Before going out to mix with other people, please ask yourself: ‘Do I really need to do this and what can I do to reduce my risk?’

“”We are at a tipping point. But we can turn this around if we all play our part by following the hands, face, space guidelines and limiting contact with other people.

"To stop infection spreading it is also crucial to start self-isolating at the first signs of symptoms and book a test.

"Please ensure you self-isolate if have been informed you are a contact of a case. While self-isolating people must not go out or have visitors at home.

“Now more than ever it is vitally important that we all work together to stop the virus spreading further in the city.”