The latest weekly data for Cumbria shows nearly 3000 new cases of COVID-19 were reported overall across the county during the last seven days.

The 2,995 new recorded cases represent an increase of 15 per cent compared to the last seven days - an increase of 392 cases compared to 2,603 new cases in the previous week.

The 5-11 and 12-18 age groups accounted for by far the greatest rates of new cases in Cumbria (1, 293 and 1,966 new cases per 100k population respectively) although new cases decreased slightly amongst 12-18 year olds compared to the previous week (-7%).

The 70-79 age group experienced the greatest proportional increase (an increase of 69, +78%, from the previous week). Although only a small numerical increase, a 78% rise is a worrying change amongst this high-risk age group.

Claire King, Consultant in Public Health for Cumbria County Council, said: "Cses of COVID-19 are continuing to steadily increase across the county and although they’re being driven by the younger age groups, we’re now seeing this translate into increases amongst older age groups – which we know are the most vulnerable to this virus.

“It’s important to remember that COVID-19 and the risks it brings with it have not gone away. We must continue to do all we can to bring cases under control.

“This means washing your hands regularly, covering your face whenever possible, getting tested regularly - especially if they’ve developed symptoms - and getting vaccinated as soon as you’re eligible.”

“If you haven’t already, please accept your COVID-19 booster vaccine when you’re offered it by the NHS. Remember though, you do not need to contact the NHS for your booster, they will contact you.”

The latest vaccine data shows 88% of those aged 16+ have now received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with 84% having received both doses.

In Carlisle, a total of 15,044 people had been confirmed as testing positive for Covid-19 when the UK coronavirus daily dashboard was updated on October 13 - that's up from 14,979 on Tuesday.

The rate of infection in Carlisle now stands at 13,862 cases per 100,000 people, higher than the England average of 12,441.

Across the UK, the number of recorded cases increased by 41,446 over the period, to 8,272,883.

However, there were no new coronavirus deaths recorded in the latest 24-hour period in Carlisle.