Dr Caroline Dimond, Director of Public Health, said: “COVID-19 infections in Torbay have been rising and we are now seeing cases in our schools, care homes and in the hospitality sector. All age groups are affected and we need our residents to carefully follow the government’s guidance on how to minimise the risk of spreading the virus further.

“This means wearing face coverings where required, limiting social contact and abiding by the rule of 6, and of course continuing to wash your hands regularly. If you think that you may have come into contact with someone with COVID-19, you should self-isolate for 14 days. If you are feeling unwell, you should call 119 or book a test online.

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“While I appreciate this information can be worrying, please remember for most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness.”

Leader of Torbay Council, Councillor Steve Darling, said: “It is imperative that we tackle the number of rising cases in Torbay or we may have no choice but to implement tougher measures. We know this year has been challenging but we are all in this together and need to do everything we can to avoid further restrictions that will impact on daily life.

“If we act now we can control the spread of the virus, help save lives and get our communities back to doing the things they love.”

Rachael Williams, Assistant Director for Education, Learning and Skills, said: “We have been working closely with Public Health England South West and local NHS colleagues to support a number of primary and secondary schools, and South Devon College, following confirmed cases of COVID-19. All settings have been operating COVID-19 mitigations, rigorous handwashing procedures, and practicing social distancing where possible. These measures have helped identify close contacts of confirmed cases.

“All educational settings are closely following national guidance and have asked affected children and staff to self-isolate for 14 days. Each setting is providing pupils, parents and staff with guidance on self-isolation, social distancing and hygiene to limit spread.”

Joanna Williams, Director of Adult Social Care, said: “As you may be aware, we have had confirmed cases of COVID-19 within our care homes. Prioritising and protecting our vulnerable people and those who work in the care sector is of paramount importance.

“We are dedicated to containing the spread of COVID-19 and are working closely with local Public Health representatives, Torbay Council, Torbay & South Devon NHS Foundation and NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group to manage all confirmed cases. Our residents and staff continue to be closely monitored and we are continuing with rigorous cleaning regimes and safety processes. Any resident who shows signs of symptoms will be tested as soon as possible and are ongoing testing for residents and staff will continue.”

This website is regularly updated with local figures.