'We cannot afford to be complacent' in Rotherham as cases spike among people in their 20s

The age bracket has seen a recent increase in the number of infections and people have been warned not to become complacent.

Gilly Brenner, public health intelligence officer at Rotherham Council gave an update on the infection rate in the borough to members of the ruling cabinet during a meeting today (September 21).

"Over the last three weeks, there has been an increase in the number of cases right across the country and we are witnessing that in Rotherham, as well," she told the meeting.

"The biggest change is in terms of the age of people who are currently testing positive.

"At the moment in Rotherham we've got a significant number of cases in the 20 to 29 age group. That's good news in some respects because we do know that the burden of ill health in the younger population is less."

Council leader Coun Chris Read added: "This isn't limited to any one part of the borough. Although the recent increases have been amongst younger people you can see...that all age groups are being affected.

"There's a temptation for people to think that it affects a particular group. We can't afford to be complacent wherever you live, whatever age you are."

Between September 6-12, Moorgate/Broom had between 10-19 cases. Areas including Brampton, Wath upon Dearne and Wales all had between three and nine cases each.

Ms Brenner said that no particular area in Rotherham as a hotspot, but that the infection was generally in households.