Coronavirus latest: 'Real health crisis' in Luton as council leader warns public to avoid meeting others outside household

As of yesterday (Tuesday), the total number of coronavirus cases in the borough stands at 2,711, with an increase of 48 compared to the previous day.

Cllr Hazel Simmons stated: "At this moment in time we are facing a real health crisis in Luton. Covid-19 cases are rising dramatically – so much so that the town now has the highest number in the whole of the Eastern region.

"Admissions to the Luton and Dunstable Hospital are increasing and tragically we have experienced Covid-19 related deaths for the first time in a number of weeks.

"It is a stark reminder of the deadly nature of the virus and the danger we are all facing.

"There can be little doubt that while we are currently on the medium alert level, if our cases continue to grow we would expect to move up to the next tier unless we can act together to slow the disease’s spread.

"This means we must all continue to follow the rules in order to play our part.

"Government states that if we do meet up with people outside our own household this has to be limited to six people only.

"Given the serious nature of the situation here in Luton, however, we are asking you to go even further than this and do all you can to limit meeting with people from other households.

"As half term week approaches we think it’s important to make this special effort – not least as we have all seen how quickly the disease is rapidly crossing age groups and spreading in certain parts of the country."

The council is urging the public to follow this easy-to-remember advice:

> Wash your hands regularly and for at least 20 seconds;

> Cover your face in enclosed spaces, especially where social distancing may be difficult;

> Stay two metres apart where possible, or one metre with extra precautions in place;

> If you show signs of any of the symptoms of coronavirus, you must self-isolate immediately and take a test.

Full details of these rules can be found at here.

Cllr Simmons added: "I know the thing we most want to do is to be with our family and friends, but the harsh reality is that sacrificing opportunities to meet up now, is the best way of showing our love and care as we move into the future.

"With half term next week, I appreciate this will be especially difficult, but it is something we must all think about doing at this key moment."