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Covid rates five time higher in Devon’s hospitals ICB warns

Covid rates five time higher in Devon’s hospitals ICB warns
By Jess Hacker
6 October 2022



The number of patients in Devon’s hospitals with Covid-19 is around five times higher than it was at the start of September, marking a huge spike in infections across the county, the ICB has warned.

As many as 250 hospital patients are currently positive with the virus, the Board said.

This number stood at just 61 at the start of September before rising to a staggering 185 by 28 September, according to figures published by Devon County Council.

The ICB warned that higher Covid rates add to the pressures that already exist in the local health and care system. It urged the public to help reduce the spread of Covid and flu by getting vaccinations for both.

Dr Nigel Acheson, its chief medical officer, said: ‘Many people will be well aware of the pressures affecting the NHS and will want to do their bit to help.  We really appreciate their support and also their patience with staff at this very busy time.’

Last week, the ICB had cautioned that its health system was under ‘extreme pressure’ due to rising Covid-19 cases, demand for services and delays to discharging.

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