WARRINGTON residents should be extra cautious against complacency this weekend following a rise in confirmed coronavirus cases.

This is the message from public health leaders at Warrington Borough Council, with the latest data showing that in the last seven days, from August 6, there have been 31 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the town.

These figures represent a marked increase in cases in Warrington compared to last month, despite Warrington having one of the lowest infection rates in the north west.

Yesterday, Thursday, Warrington residents were urged to play their part to prevent the spread of the virus.

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And Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for public health, is renewing her appeal for residents to continue to do all they can to prevent further transmission.

“Please think carefully about where you go and who you see, over the weekend,” she said.

“We need everybody’s support over the coming weeks to drive case numbers back down, and I would ask anyone who feels even slightly symptomatic or generally unwell to book a coronavirus test and self-isolate immediately.

“We need to do all we can to avoid the prospect of localised lockdown restrictions like we have seen in Greater Manchester, for example.

“It is still in our hands to control the increase in case numbers.

“I understand the temptation, especially over the weekend, to visit people and to go places where you may not especially want to socially distance yourself – but I would ask you to remain disciplined to help protect one another.

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“There may be people you will see and socialise with who have the virus but are not displaying any symptoms and who could pass it on to you or more vulnerable people.

“It is therefore of the utmost importance that you continue to follow the clear guidance to avoid making yourself or others seriously unwell.

“And finally, always remember the basics – wear face coverings where necessary, maintain excellent hand hygiene, keep your distance and book a test if you have any symptoms of coronavirus, however mild, including a high temperature, persistent cough or loss of normal taste or smell.”

For more information, visit warrington.gov.uk/TestAndTrace