RESIDENTS in west Cheshire should not become complacent about the impact of coronavirus, as figures are showing the rate of those dying from the virus in the borough appears to be levelling off.

That's the message from Cheshire West and Chester Council leader Louise Gittins, who is also chair of the authority's health and wellbeing board.

Following the latest meeting of the Health and Wellbeing Board on Thursday, May 21, a report has been published to provide an overview on the current picture of Covid-19 on a local scale.

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted everyone in the borough and key workers and residents have all come together, working hard to help fight the virus.

Cllr Gittins has praised the community spirit which has seen residents help the vulnerable and isolated in their neighbourhoods, as well as showing support for hospitals and care homes.

Cllr Gittins said: “I know it’s been extremely difficult for everyone and for those who have lost loved ones during the pandemic. My thoughts are with those families.

“During these times of uncertainty, fear and worry, the community spirit has shone through. Residents have come together in times of need, supporting each other to help beat this virus.

"We have all been playing our part to reduce the strain on hospitals and care homes.

“We, as a council have been working tirelessly with our key partners on the Health and Wellbeing Board to help minimise the impact of Covid-19 on our residents, keep people safe and provide those who have the illness with the right treatment and support.

“We have actively engaged with care home providers to monitor the situation, provide support and emergency Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), when care providers are struggling to obtain the right equipment.”

The report highlights 992 cases of Covid-19 being reported in Cheshire West and Chester, equating to a rate of 289 per 100,000 (as of 5pm on Monday, May 18).

At that point, there has been a total of 268 coronavirus deaths in west Cheshire with 66 per cent occurring in hospital, 28 per cent occurring in care homes and the remaining deaths occurring in other establishments.

Cllr Louise Gittins added: “Whilst the number of deaths in the borough seems to be stabilising, we shouldn’t become complacent.

"We need to continue to follow the Government guidelines, stay at home as much as possible, maintain social distancing and help to save lives.”