COVID case rates across Dorset have remained “stable” in recent weeks, health officials have said.

Local health authority Public Health Dorset said the rate had been between 10 and 20 cases per 100,000 people.

A spokesperson said: “Our data shows that COVID-related hospitalisations and deaths have also remained low in recent weeks.”

Bournemouth Echo:

Across Dorset, there are currently five patients being treated for Covid compared to seven previously.

According to the latest weekly data, the rate in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area for the seven days to April 17 was 13.2 with 52 cases.

It is above the south west average of 12.8.

During the same period, the rate in the wider Dorset area was 12.2 with 46 cases recorded.

Both BCP and Dorset have rates below the England average of 23.8.

Up to 18 April, 604,137 Covid vaccine doses had been administered to people in Dorset. 

The spokesperson added: “In the last two weeks we’ve seen restrictions eased further, with more shops and businesses able to reopen and the return of outdoor hospitality. It will take a few weeks before we can see the impact of this step on our cases, so we do need everyone to play their part in keeping cases low.

"If you’re meeting others, please remember you still need to maintain a safe distance and follow the guidance on hands, face, space and fresh air.”