Minutes:
Dr. Andy Snell, Consultant in Public and Global Health was welcomed to the meeting to provide an overview on Covid-19.
Members heard how variations had been seen throughout the globe, with the US having experienced turbulence, and France previously seeing a significantly high peak. However, the UK rates and deaths per 1 million residents were currently high globally. This was attributed to winter and less tight controls, alongside the UK variant, which had resulted in rises in cases, deaths, and significant pressures on care.
However, it was suggested that the UK was seeing cases drop and was now over the peak. Members also heard that the rates of vaccines per million people was significantly high.
It was noted that in December/January that Barnsley had low case rates compared to other areas nationally. This could be attributed to areas with fewer restrictions and the more transmissible variant leading to high case rates in those areas. However, lockdown had contributed to reducing variations throughout the country.
Members heard that the 7-day case rate for Barnsley was 226/100,000, which was relatively low nationally, but significantly above rates in the summer and September. Though it was expected that the vaccine would have an impact, but Barnsley still had high rates of death, with it ranking 4th in the country. Pressure was also still being felt in Primary Care. The reasons behind high death rates, which included a high density of care homes, an older than average population and high rates of social and economic deprivation were discussed. It was suggested that Covid had starkly highlighted health inequalities, with an opportunity to address these in recovery and renewal, building back fairer.
With regards to vaccination, it was noted that the vast majority of over 75s has been vaccinated, with increasing numbers of those aged over 70. In addition, the majority of social care, primary care and related workforces had also been vaccinated.
Members noted the emergence of new variants, but there was evidence that the vaccination did help to reduce the spread of the virus. Also noted was the additional social and economy impacts of the pandemic and the need to work together to address these.
RESOLVED:- that thanks be given for the presentation, and that the update be received.