Covid infection rates have begun to fall again across Dorset.

Public Health Dorset reports there are 3,358 confirmed cases in the last seven days in the Dorset Council area, compared to 3,692 on February 4, and 3,650 in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area, compared to 4,503 on February 4.

The seven-day case rate per 100,000 of the population is 884.2 in the Dorset Council area, compared to 972.1 on February 4, and 919.4 in the BCP Council area, compared to 1,1343.3 on February 4.

There are currently 90 people in Dorset hospital beds with Covid, compared to 90 on February 4.

A spokesman for Public Health Dorset said: "Following a rise in cases over the past couple of weeks, infection rates have started to fall again across Dorset Council and BCP Council. Case rates in both council areas are above the national average for England but below the regional average for the South West. Infection rates remain highest amongst children and lowest amongst over 65s.

"The number of people in hospital in Dorset with Covid-19 remains similar to last week at 92.

"Whilst there are far fewer people needing hospital treatment as a result of Covid-19 compared to last year, our local health and care services are under significant pressure. Alongside exceptional demand and the usual pressures faced every winter, Covid-19 is adding to these pressures.

"Please continue to play your part by getting your jabs to protect yourself from serious illness, and taking precautions to reduce the spread of the virus."

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