There's been a small drop in case rates across Dorset, but infection levels remain high.

Public Health Dorset reports that there are 2,092 cases in the last seven days in the Dorset Council area, compared to 2,279 on December 10, and 2,493 in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area, compared to 2,712 on December 10.

The seven day case rate per 100,000 of the population in the Dorset Council area is 550.8, compared to 600.1 on December 10, and 628.0 in the BCP Council area, compared to 683.1 on December 10.

There are currently 83 people with Covid-19 in Dorset hospital beds, compared to 79 on December 10.

A spokesman for Public Health Dorset said: "Whilst we have seen a small drop in case rates in Dorset and BCP Councils over the past week, infection levels remain high and we can see that nationally cases are now rising rapidly due to the spread of the Omicron variant. We expect to see cases rise in Dorset over the next few weeks.

"To date we have had a small number of Omicron cases confirmed in Dorset compared to other areas, but full sequencing and confirmation can take some time. We know we are slightly behind other areas like London where Omicron is surging, so we expect to see this in Dorset soon.

"The number of people in hospital with Covid-19 is currently 83. There is not enough data to be certain about the severity of the Omicron variant, but even if it is less severe than Delta, we expect to see more people needing hospital treatment due to the increased transmissibility of this variant leading to many more people potentially becoming infected.

"Therefore, it's really important we do all we can to take steps to reduce the spread and protect ourselves and others. The vaccination programme is expanding quickly to offer everyone eligible a booster before the end of the year. We're also urging anyone who hasn't had their first or second dose to take up the offer.

"Vaccination alone will not stop the spread of the virus, we also need to continue with public health measures. Test regularly, particularly before gatherings or meeting others. Get plenty of fresh air when you're meeting others, by meeting outdoors or opening doors and windows. Wear a face covering in indoor or crowded spaces. As the festive period approaches, consider the risks as with high infection rates you are much more likely to catch Covid-19. Avoid mixing unnecessarily, as this could mean having to miss the things that are most important to you.

"If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, self-isolate immediately and arrange a PCR test."

Watch the latest video from Sam Crowe, director of Public Health, on the current situation at the top of this page.

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