Data released by the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) shows the R rate for the whole of the South West is now between 1.2 to 1.5 compared to between 1.1 and 1.3 for the whole of the country.
Along with the North West this is the highest rate throughout the English regions with London currently the lowest at 0.9 – 1.2.
The R rate (reproduction number) – indicates how quickly Covid-19 is spreading. The South West’s rate between 1.2 and 1.5 means that, on average, every 10 people infected will infect between 12 and 15 other people.
South West 1.2-1.5
North West – 1.2-1.5
Midlands 1.2-1.4
North East and Yorkshire – 1.1-1.3
East of England – 1.0-1.3
South East 1.0-1.2
London 0.9-1.2
This is the latest data available and is up to 11th January.
A spokesperson for SAGE said: “The latest figures show that we need to remain vigilant to keep this virus under control, to protect the NHS and save lives.
“We all need to play our part, and if everyone continues to follow the rules, we can expect to drive down the R number across the country.”
