CORONAVIRUS infections are continuing to rise across the borough – with Kearsley and Stoneclough topping the infection table. 

The Bolton neighbourhood is the worst-hit area in the borough, with 84 residents testing positive for the virus between October 21 - 27.

In the week before, 58 new infections were reported in the area, while Astley Bridge and Waters Meeting recorded the most infections with 84.

The area still has the second-highest number of new infections, at 77, while Halliwell and Brownlow Fold saw 69 residents test positive.

 

All 35 of Bolton’s neighbourhoods have now reported three or more infections of the virus, with 1,615 new cases seen across this week. 

The data has been extracted from a map, which uses figures from Public Health England to detail each confirmed case of coronavirus by Middle Super Output Area, sections of around 7,200 people.

Although the number of cases continues to rise, several areas have seen drops over the last week – including Rumworth South, from 76 to 61, Eagley and Sharples, from 59 to 51, and Rumworth North, down to 49 from 59. 

Bolton Council’s assistant director for public health, Lynn Donkin, said: “The rising infection rates being seen across the borough are a cause for concern.

"There is some variation at MSOA level and we are monitoring this but the picture is one of transmission being widespread throughout the community.

“We are working proactively with businesses, schools, workplaces, care homes and other organisations to promote good infection prevention control and COVID-secure practices.

"Our local Public Health team is also continuing to work closely with Public Health England to investigate and manage any potential clusters. 

“We would ask everybody to please keep following the guidance, stay two metres apart from other people, keep washing your hands and wear a face covering. You should be extra vigilant in doing these things if you were previously advised to shield.

“If you have symptoms, isolate yourself straight away and book a test. If you are contacted and told to isolate by NHS Test and Trace, be sure to stay at home and isolate for the full period. This is really important as you could still develop symptoms as many as 14 days after being exposed to the virus.

“The new Stay at Home measures announced by the government will take effect on Thursday. Please keep an eye on the government and council websites for more details.”