Cases of Covid-19 are rising rapidly in Cornwall and the county’s leaders say that “Hands, Space, Face” is still the best weapon in the battle to keep the virus under control.

The Covid-19 infection rate has risen from 70.3 to 96.2 per 100,000 people in the past seven days. Cases overall in Cornwall have risen by 551 (44%) in the past week.

This comes as the UK recorded a record number of coronavirus infections yesterday – 53, 135 – although testing now is much more extensive than at the start of the pandemic.

Many of the confirmed cases in Cornwall have been in workplaces and hospitality settings, says Cornwall Council.

Leader of the Council Julian German said: “The Public Health team and I are increasingly concerned by the speed with which the virus is spreading in Cornwall and urge everyone to play their part in bringing this back under control.

“The ‘Hands, Face, Space’ message is still our best weapon in the fight with Covid-19 so please remember to wash your hands regularly, use a face covering when physical distancing is not possible and try to keep your distance from those not in your household.

“Following these simple steps could make a significant difference in reducing the transmission of Covid-19 and help protect all of us and save lives.”

Rachel Wigglesworth, Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “Covid-19 is moving quickly from household to household and we are urging people to follow the rules and be mindful of how easily the virus can be spread.

“If you have any of the main symptoms – a new continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss of taste or smell, you must self-isolate and your household must continue to self-isolate while waiting for a test. You also must continue to isolate until you get your test results.

“Anyone who tests positive must self-isolate, along with all members of their household, whether they have symptoms or not.”

A Government announcement on Tier system changes is expected this afternoon.

Many more people could be placed under the toughest Tier 4 restrictions. Around 40% of people in England are currently living in Tier 4.

Infection rates are increasing rapidly in lower-tier areas of the country, according to the latest Government figures.