Covid case rates across Dorset have increased over the past couple of days, but have decreased since last week.

Public Health Dorset reports that there are 2,181 confirmed cases in the last seven days in the Dorset Council area, compared to 2,301 on October 29, and 2,018 in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area, compared to 2,085 on October 29.

The seven-day case rate per 100,000 of the population in the Dorset Council area is 574.3, compared to 605.9 on October 29, and 508.3 in the BCP Council area, compared to 525.2 on October 29.

There are currently 69 people with Covid-19 in Dorset hospital beds, compared to 52 on October 29.

A spokesman for Public Health Dorset said: "Case rates across both Dorset Council and BCP Council areas have decreased since last week, but we have seen a small increase in rates over the past couple of days.

"After a steep rise in cases during October, infection levels across the county remain high. Following this rise, the number of people in Dorset hospitals with Covid-19 has increased to 69 - this is the highest number since March 2021. The number of deaths related to Covid-19 has remained relatively stable over the past few weeks.

"With high case rates and wider pressure on our local health and care system, we continue to ask everyone to remember that we are still living with Covid-19 and act with caution. Please take these steps:

• Get plenty of fresh air by meeting outdoors or opening doors and windows. This reduces your chances of catching or spreading Covid-19

• Get vaccinated against Covid-19. It's not too late if you haven't had your first or second dose yet, and if you're eligible for a booster jab please take up the offer."

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