Largest testing programme for Coronavirus reinforces need for vigilance
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Over 300,000 volunteers tested across England between 24 July and
7th September, as part of the country’s largest study into
coronavirus Findings from Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI
show the virus is now doubling every 7 to 8 days Findings reinforce
the need for the ‘rule of six’ for social gatherings The third
report from the country’s largest study on Coronavirus rates of
infection has been published today showing that cases are
increasing steadily...Request free
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The third report from the country’s largest study on Coronavirus rates of infection has been published today showing that cases are increasing steadily across the country. The study examines levels of infection in the general population in England. The latest findings for the period 22 August and 7 September - testing more than 150,000 volunteers - indicate cases were doubling every seven to eight days. It is estimated 13 people per 10,000 were infected in England, compared to 4 people per 10,000 between 24 July and 11 August 2020. These findings reinforce the need for continued vigilance from the public. Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We’ve seen all across the world how a rise in cases, initially among younger people, leads to hospitalisations and fatalities. The pandemic is not over, and everyone has a role to play to keep the virus at bay and avoid another further restrictions. “It’s so important that everyone abides by the law and socialise in groups up to six, make space between you and those outside your household, get a test and self-isolate if you develop symptoms and wash your hands regularly. It is vital you engage with NHS Test and Trace service if contacted to provide details of your close contacts and self-isolate if you are asked to do so.” COVID-19 cases are shown as no longer clustering in healthcare or care home settings, as seen in May and June, suggesting the virus is now spread more widely in the community. Infections are increasing across all adult age groups below the age of 65 years and across all areas of the country, with higher rates seen in young people aged 18 to 24 years. Infection is highest in Yorkshire and the Humber, the North East and the North West. The latest findings from Imperial are published today at the same time as the government’s official weekly R rate. The R rate published by Imperial has been estimated based on a cohort of 150,000 volunteers within a specific timeframe. The weekly official government R rate is produced by SAGE and uses many data sources and models to produce a consensus view in the scientific community of the likely R number over a longer timeframe. This is one of several studies that feed into government decision-making and policies on tackling the spread of COVID-19 in England. The Prime Minister this week announced further measures to keep Coronavirus cases low. From Monday we are introducing the rule of six in law. Individuals must only meet socially in groups of up to six people in any settings indoors or outdoors, including your home, restaurants and pubs. There are some exemptions including organised sports, weddings and funerals. It is important to continue to keep your distance from others outside your household. Professor Paul Elliott, Director of the programme at Imperial from the School of Public Health, said: “Our large and robust dataset clearly shows a concerning trend in coronavirus infections, where cases are growing quickly across England and are no longer concentrated in key workers. What we are seeing is evidence of an epidemic in the community and not a result of increased testing capacity. This is a critical time and it’s vital that the public, our health system and policy-makers are aware of the situation as we cannot afford complacency.” Kelly Beaver, Managing Director- Public Affairs at Ipsos MORI said: “Each and every participant in our study has contributed immensely to the national effort in tracking COVID-19 across England. I would like to thank all those who have taken part for their invaluable contribution. By participating in the study they have helped to provide timely data to Government on the rise in case numbers and allowed Ministers to adopt measures to combat that rise.” The Real-time Assessment of Community Transmission (REACT-1) programme is the largest, most significant piece of research looking at how the virus is spreading across the country. The study was commissioned by DHSC and carried out by a world-class team of scientists, clinicians and researchers at Imperial College London, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust and Ipsos MORI. It is one of many pieces of research that feeds into government decision making on keeping the country safe from COVID-19. Notes to editors The latest findings from 22 August and 7 September 2020, testing over 150,000 people show:
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