THE number of people being treated in Dorset’s hospitals for Covid-19 has risen by almost 40 per cent, according to the latest data.

Local health authority Public Health Dorset said the number of patients in the county’s hospitals had risen from 182 to 254 amid “very high” cases.

A spokesperson said: “Confirmed cases of Covid-19 remain very high across Dorset. Case rates for Dorset, BCP and the wider south west region are significantly above the England average.

“We've also seen the number of people with Covid-19 in hospitals in Dorset continue to rise up to 254 from 182. However, due to high prevalence in the community, it is likely that some of these people will be in hospital primarily for other reasons.”

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In the seven days to March 26, a total of 4,730 cases were recorded in the BCP Council area compared to 4,287 the previous week.

Meanwhile, in wider Dorset, the number of cases fell from 5,093 to 4,838.

The case rate per 100,000 people in the Dorset Council area was 1,273.9, which is above the south west and England average of 1,250.4 and 873.8 respectively.

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The rate for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area was below Dorset’s at 1,191.5.

The Public Health Dorset spokesperson added: “Infection rates are at very high levels in our communities, so you should keep taking steps to reduce the spread of the virus.

“By taking public health precautions, you can help to protect those who are most vulnerable and reduce pressure on essential services.”