DORSET has seen a rise in cases of coronavirus but the increase appears to be “levelling off”.

A total of 30 new positive tests have been recorded in the BCP Council area in the past week, while Dorset Council saw 11 new cases.

Latest figures released by Public Health Dorset show 78 people tested positive for Covid-19 in the BCP Council area between September 22 and 28, compared to 48 the previous week.

In the Dorset Council area, 29 new cases were confirmed for the same period compared to 18 in the previous seven days.

Public Health Dorset said: “In line with the national trend, our data shows that cases have risen in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and Dorset Council areas. Although our numbers are now higher, the increase does seem to be levelling off. We continue to monitor all of our data to understand the current picture.”

In terms of rate per 100,000 of the population, BCP Council had a figure of 19.7 for September 22 to 28, and Dorset Council had 7.7.

The previous seven days this was 15.7 and 5.6 respectively.

Both authority areas remain below the south west figure of 33.2 and the national average of 55.1.

As reported previously in the Daily Echo, a small number of cases have been confirmed at Bournemouth University.

Public Health Dorset said: “At the moment the number of cases amongst students in Bournemouth is low compared to elsewhere in the UK but we will continue to work with local partners to monitor the situation and respond accordingly. The university has implemented a wide range of public health measures to reduce the risk of transmission, but we need everyone to play their part.”

In terms of schools, Public Health Dorset said a number of schools in both the Dorset and BCP Council areas have reported positive cases.

The health authority said: “We continue to work closely with any affected schools and Public Health England South West to ensure any necessary measures are taken. Affected schools communicate directly with parents and carers regarding any changes to school provision.

“Any close contacts of cases are contacted and advised to self-isolate. Members of the school community do not need to self-isolate and should not get tested unless specifically directed to do so.”

On care homes, Public Health Dorset said: “We are continuing to see positive cases in a number of care homes identified through routine whole care home testing. These are monitored closely working with partners in adult social care, NHS Dorset CCG and the care homes themselves to ensure all necessary measures are being taken.”