Infection rates remain at high levels across Dorset, but there has been a slight decrease.

Public Health Dorset reports that there are 2,168 cases in the last seven days in the Dorset Council area, compared to 2,231 on November 26, and 2,418 in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area, compared to 2,354 on November 26.

The seven-day case rate per 100,000 of the population in the Dorset Council area is 570.8, compared to 587.4 on November 26, and 609.1 in the BCP Council area, compared to 593.0 on November 26.

There are currently 95 people with Covid-19 in Dorset hospital beds, the same amount on November 26.

Face coverings now must be worn in shops, shopping centres and on public transport as well as it being advised in crowded areas. For more information, visit gov.uk

A spokesman for Public Health Dorset said: "Infection rates remain at high levels across Dorset Council and BCP Council, however we have seen a slight decrease in Dorset Council infection rates over the past week.

"Our local case rates are higher than both the South West and England averages, and are amongst the highest in England.

"The number of people in hospital across Dorset with Covid-19 has continued to increase, although we can see the impact of the vaccine as in previous waves we have seen much higher numbers of people in hospital. We've also continued to see a number of deaths related to Covid-19 each week.

"We know that many people will be concerned following the news on the new Omicron variant, which has been found in the UK, and the Government has introduced some new measures in response to this as a precaution whilst more analysis is carried out.

"We've not yet identified any cases in Dorset but we'll continue to work with regional and national colleagues to monitor the situation closely and it is expected that more cases will be found in the UK.

"With high infection levels in our local area, we're asking people to take all measures they can to protect themselves and others from Covid-19:

• Take a lateral flow test before meeting others

• Get plenty of fresh air and ventilation

• Wear a face covering in indoor and crowded spaces

• Wash your hands regularly and maintain distance between yourself and others

• Self-isolate and arrange a PCR test if you have any symptoms

• Get vaccinated, including your booster dose." Don't forget to sign up to our newsletter below! You can submit your own news straight to Dorchester Nub News by using the 'Nub It' button on our home page. This can also be done for events on our What's On page and businesses, groups and organisations on our Local Listings page , also by using the 'Nub It' button. Please like and follow our online newspaper on your favourite social media channel. You can find us @DorchesterNubNews on Facebook and @DorchesterNub Twitter.