COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 30th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 30th July 2021

The UK added 29,622 cases today and now has reported a total of 5,830,774 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 863,554 tests yesterday.

The counter says 46,775,525 people (88.4% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 37,962,407 people (71.8%) had received 2 doses.

5,916 people were in hospital yesterday 29th July (up from 5,001 a week earlier / 3,964 two weeks earlier), with 869 people using a ventilator (up from 699 a week earlier / 551 two weeks earlier).

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 68 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 129,583 losses of life in all settings.

Up until Friday 16th July, 153,342 people had COVID listed as a cause on their death certificate.

Rep. Of Ireland 298,048 cases and 5,035 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 197,703,056 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,219,658. Already 178,754,952 people have recovered.

“Delta is a warning..
“It's a warning that this virus is evolving. But it's also a call to action: That we need to move now, before more dangerous variants emerge."
Dr Mike Ryan, World Health Organisation. 

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 28th / 29th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 28th / 29th July 2021

The UK added 31,117 cases today (down from 39,905 a week earlier) and now has reported a total of 5,801,561 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 911,012 tests yesterday.

The counter says 46,733,115 people (88.4% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 37,782,252 people (71.4%) had received 2 doses.

6,034 people were in hospital yesterday Wednesday 28th July (up from 4,861 a week earlier), with 853 using a ventilator (up from 647 a week earlier).

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 85 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 129,515 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 298,048 (+1,361) cases and 5,035 losses of life.

There have now been a total of 197,035,002 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,209,410. Already 178,353,731 people have recovered.

"One billion doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine have now been supplied to 170 countries. This British vaccine, distributed at cost, is saving lives across the globe.
Together we can vaccinate the world by the end of next year and build back better from coronavirus."
Boris Johnson, UK PM

"BREAKING: The number of covid positive patients in English hospitals has FALLEN for the first time in 30 days!
One swallow doesn't make a summer - but VERY good sign."
Alistair McLellan, Editor of the Health Services Journal.
According to the figures London has a sudden drop of 80 patients, which is a bit weird, but even if you ignore London, figures look static/slightly down elsewhere.
I still won't believe it for another week myself, but I'll be more than happy to be proven wrong if this continues, and every less patient in hospital is a good thing. (Across the whole UK, the drop was 1 patient.)

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 26th / 27th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 26th / 27th July 2021

The UK added 23,511 cases today  cases today ( last week 46,558 / 2 weeks  36,660 / 3 weeks 28,773 / 4 weeks 20,479) and now has reported a total of 5,745,526 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed a shockingly low 810,459 tests yesterday.

The counter says 46,653,796 people (88.2% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 37,459,060 people (70.8%) had received 2 doses.

5,918 people were in hospital yesterday, Wednesday 27th July, (up from 4,567 a week earlier), with 820 people using a ventilator (up from 611 a week earlier).

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 131 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 129,303 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 294,272 cases and 5,026 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 195,725,739 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,188,914. Already 177,452,809 people have recovered.

“The effect of vaccines has been huge in reducing the risk of hospitalisation and death, and I’m positive that by late September, October time we will be looking back at most of the pandemic."
Professor Neil Ferguson (SAGE member) on BBC Radio 4’s Today.
Fingers crossed eh Neil. Not everyone agrees with his prognosis, but we'd all like him to be right. Personally I reckon technically, he will be (Dodgy new variants aside), although what we'll go through to get there might be grim. The worse it is, the more "looking back" we'll have. As England seems to be sprinting for the finish line in some sort of muddied, bloodied, screaming, Highlander style ("you'll not take my freedoms!"), there should be a lot to look back on. Buckle up. 

"We're not out of the woods yet..."
Boris Johnson - pointing out in the most wishy-washy ambiguous way possible that actually,  UK case numbers right now might be luring us into a false sense of security. 

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Weekend Update 24th / 25th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Weekend Update 24th / 25th July 2021

The UK added 29,173 cases today and now has reported a total of 5,697,912 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,013,261 tests yesterday.

The counter says 46,563,452 people (88% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 37,160,659 people (70.3%) had received 2 doses.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 28 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 129,158 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 292,996 (+1,126) cases and 5,026 losses of life.

There have now been a total of 194,665,050 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,172,525. Already 176,655,351 people have recovered.

"70 million doses of the #NHSCOVIDVaccine have been given across England — including over 30 million people now fully vaccinated after receiving two doses!
Thanks to #OurNHSPeople, volunteers and everyone involved."
NHS England

Compassionless Politician of the Week:
"Symptoms were mild, thanks to amazing vaccines. Please – if you haven't yet – get your jab, as we learn to live with, rather than cower from, this virus."
Sajid Javid, UK Health Secretary.

Books For Bereaved Younger Children - It's Okay To Feel Happy (Sent for review).

It's Okay To Feel Happy and I Want To Hug Mummy are books which have been written especially to support younger children who have been bereaved, and I have been sent them for review by Troubadour Press.

The author, David Peart, is a widowed Dad, and he writes from the heart, with a gentle bluntness and honesty which can be especially useful for younger children. 

It's Okay To Feel Happy talks about the feeling you get in your tummy, when you do something, but then you are crippled by confused emotions because it feels so wrong to be happy. Survivor guilt isn't just for grown ups.

Pride, joy, excitement, fun, achievement. They are all clouded by grief, and it can be incredibly hard, especially at first, to allow them out. 

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 23rd July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 23rd July 2021

The UK added 36,389 cases today and now has reported a total of 5,637,975 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,013,261 tests yesterday.

The counter says 46,476,845 people (87.9% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 36,762,646 people (69.5% of UK adults) had received 2 doses and will be fully vaccinated 14 days after the second dose.

5,001 people were in hospital yesterday Thursday 22nd (up from 3,964 a week earlier), with 699 using a ventilator (up from 551 a week earlier).

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 64 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 129,044 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 290,525 (+1,386) cases and 5,026 losses of life.

There have now been a total of 193,701,849 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,156,111. Already 175,919,238 people have recovered.

“I think the word irreversible about anything is probably best not used.”
NHS England head Sir Simon Stevens (in today's Financial Times).

"North East and Yorkshire becomes the first of seven regions in the English NHS to record over 1000 covid+ hospital patients. [It had 80 on 5 June]."
Alistair McLellan, Editor of the HSJ (Health Services Journal).

Geomag Super Color Panels Magnetic Construction Set Review (age 5-99+)

Geomag is excellent stuff. It's one of my favourite construction STEM toys, it's been around for ages and now it's even better - in 100% recycled plastic. Construction toys have always been popular in my house, as as science, and Geomag fits into both of those categories. Their magnetic construction system is strictly suitable for children aged 5 and over, and there's still plenty of fun to be had if you are a little older than that...

We've been sent the 52 piece Geomag Super Color Panels Magnetic Construction Set for review. 

I was incredibly impressed as soon as I saw the box. It does clip shut for future use, there's no tape, no single use plastic. Best of, and pure genius - 2 small storage boxes are included to keep your magnets safe. There is also a resealable plastic bag for the other pieces. 

The packaging is 61% recycled, and the plastic is 100% recycled. It's awesome. I'm so impressed. This is the future - the sustainable future for our children. 

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 21st / 22nd July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 21st / 22nd July 2021

The UK added 39,905 cases today and now has reported a total of 5,602,321 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,038,954 tests yesterday.

The counter says 46,433,845 people (87.8% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 36,587,904 people (69.2%) had received 2 doses and are fully vaccinated.

4,861 people were in hospital yesterday, 21st July, with 647 using a ventilator.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 84 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,980 losses of life in all settings.

Up until Friday 9th July, 153,070 people had COVID written as a cause on their death certificate.

Area: Deaths / Rate per 100,000 population
Wales: 5,594 / 177.4 (1 in 565)
Scotland 7,842 / 143.5 (1 in 697)
Northern Ireland 2,166 / 114.4 (1 in 877)
England 113,378 / 201.4 (1 in 497)

Rep. Of Ireland 289,139 (+1,188) cases and 5,026 losses of life.

There have now been a total of 193,134,081 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,147,246. Already 175,540,253 people have recovered.

"NHS staff are rightly receiving a pay rise this year.
I’m pleased to accept the independent pay review recommendation in full - with a 3% pay rise for all staff in scope, from doctors and nurses to paramedics and porters."
Sajid Javid, winner of worst promotion ever, new UK Health Secretary.

The Last Generation by Miles Bavin, Young Adult Science Fiction Review (Sent for review)

The Last Generation by Miles Bavin is a young adult science fiction novel which Book Guild Publishing sent me for review.  Suitable for confident readers aged around 12 or over, The Last Generation is a book which is as much about friendship and loss as it is about a future where the Earth is dying, and the only chance may be escape... 

Our main character is teenager Ellie, a pupil at Oakham Elementary, a boarding school somewhere in England. Ellie is deaf, and impressively that's almost irrelevant to the story. She just happens to be deaf, and she is an excellent lip-reader. She is also possibly an orphan, as are many of the pupils at the school.

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 19th / 20th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 19th / 20th July 2021

The UK added 46,558 cases today ( last week 36,660 / 2 weeks  28,773 / 3 weeks 20,479) and has reported a total of 5,519,602 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,074,493 tests yesterday.

46,349,709 people (88% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 36,243,287 people (68.8%) had received 2 doses.
(The UK population figures are being updated on Thursday, so the percentages might adjust slightly.)

4,567 people were in hospital yesterday, with 611 using a ventilator.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 96 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,823 losses of life in all settings.

Total cases for the last 7 days:
Area: Cases / Rate per 100,000 population
Wales: 6,470 / 205.2 (1 in 487)
Scotland: 15,458 / 282.9 (1 in 354)
Northern Ireland: 5,570 / 294.1 (1 in 340)
England: 266,515 / 473.5 (1 in 211)

Rep. Of Ireland 285,581 cases and 5,018 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 192,033,114 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,116,810. Already 174,756,345 people have recovered.

"It feels really surreal (and not in a good way) to be living in a country that is actively trying to infect young adults and children with Covid.
I just can't imagine ever being ok with it."
Professor Christina Pagel (indieSAGE / University College London)
Figures so far suggest that somewhere between 1-10% of children and young people will have symptoms lasting over 3 months.  

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK/Plague Island Briefing with Boris 19th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus Plague Island Briefing with Boris 19th July 2021

Cases: +39,950
Losses of Life: +19
1st Dose vaccination: 46,314,039 (87.9% of UK adults)
2nd Dose vaccination: 36,099,727 (68.5%)

IMPORTANT! Read this thing:
The MET Office has issued an Amber Heat Alert until Thursday - and they genuinely expect people to come to harm due to the heat. Look after yourself - and each other.
It may be so hot in some parts of the UK that electrical equipment fails. If your internet goes down, there's probably a server room somewhere which is melting. 

"Did you see Boris has a Churchillian speech planned "we have vanquished the virus" for tomorrow that has now been cancelled?" Facebook reader Kerry yesterday.
Heavens no, I didn't. But I laughed a full 10 minutes at the idea. And then I cried.

Protestors were in force outside Downing Street today. They can't complain about lockdown any more, and the anti-vaxxers aren't doing so well, so it was 'No COVID Passports'. Bizarrely though, they mainly chanted "Arrest Boris Johnson". I'm not sure which of his crimes they wanted him arrested for, but for once it's a sentiment I can get behind. 

"In the absence of leadership from the Government …
If you’re travelling on public transport in Greater Manchester tomorrow, please wear a mask out of consideration for others
We do things differently here and that means looking out for each other and not buying the “Freedom Day” rhetoric."
Andy Burnham,  Manchester Mayor. 

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 17th / 18th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Weekend Update 17th / 18th July 2021

The UK added 48,161 cases today and now has reported a total of 5,433,939 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,177,716 tests yesterday.

The counter says 46,295,853 people (87.9% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 35,970,849 people (68.3%) had received 2 doses and are fully vaccinated.

People in hospital hasn't been updated since Thursday, when it was 3,964, with 551 using a ventilator.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 25 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,708 losses of life in all settings. (There is an error in the data for Scotland, which will be resolved in the next UK Gov update tomorrow.)

Rep. Of Ireland 284,510 (+1,179) cases and 5,018 losses of life.

There have now been a total of 191,070,294 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,103,007. Already 174,015,889 people have recovered.

"Every adult in the UK has now been offered their first dose of the vaccine. A phenomenal national effort.
Please come forward for your jab if you haven’t already - it protects you and your loved ones."
Sajid "very glad I got my vaccinations" Javid.

"At this point, you are either vaccinated or you are going to catch Delta.
And whether you are young adult or old, when you catch Delta unvaccinated, you will have the highest chance of being hospitalized compared to almost any disease you have caught in your life."
Professor Shane Crotty, La Jolla Institute for Immunology

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 16th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 16th July 2021

The UK added 51,870 cases today and now has reported a total of 5,332,371 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,177,716 tests yesterday.

The counter says 46,159,145 people (87.6% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 35,543,321 people (67.5%) had received 2 doses.

3,964 people were in hospital yesterday, with 551 using a ventilator.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 49 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,642 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 280,784 cases and 5,006 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 190,059,236 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,086,966. Already 173,305,971 people have recovered.

"More that at ANY time during the pandemic, I get the overwhelming sense that the UK is snatching defeat from the jaws of victory with the decision to move ahead with 19 July unlocking."
Alistair McLellan, Editor of the Health Services Journal.

“In New Zealand we've always looked to the UK for leadership.. it's why it just seems so remarkable you're not following even basic public health principles."
"We and my colleagues in NZ are quite astounded that that you're doing this"
 Professor Michael Baker, official advisor to the New Zealand government.

Oops. Heads up Boris, the world has spotted you now. 

July 2021. 83 Months.... #TBCSmiles

Wow! What a month. It's been a roller-coaster indeed, and with the announcement we will be lifting Coronavirus restrictions in England next Monday, a lot of people's emotions are high. Depending on your point of view, it's scary, it's exciting, it's a relief, it's a massive worry. Everyone's own experience will be different, and we have to respect that. There is no doubt that the roller-coaster will carry on running, and in the UK at least, it is about to get bumpy. Thankfully vaccinations will keep the vast majority of us out of hospital. There is plenty of hope.

COVID or not, my month has featured hospital, my own personal roller-coaster, and one of those weird experiences that really seems like proof someone is watching over you.

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 14th / 15th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 14th / 15th July 2021

The UK added 48,553 cases today (up from 32,551 a week earlier and 27,289 two weeks earlier), and now has reported a total of 5,281,098 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,210,002 tests yesterday (which I think could be a record).

The counter says 46,097,464 people (87.5% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 35,341,428 people had received 2 doses (67.1%).

3,786 people were in hospital yesterday, 14th July (up from 2,636 a week earlier and 1,795 two weeks earlier), with 545 using a ventilator (up from 417 a week earlier and 287 two weeks earlier).

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 63 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,593 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 279,790 cases and 5,006 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 189,473,728 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,078,581. Already 172,964,052 people have recovered.

Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford has announced that all of Wales will move into Alert Level One from July 17th, with an intention to move to Level Zero on August 7th, although some restrictions will remain in place.
From Saturday 17 July - Alert Level 1:
- Up to 6 people can meet indoors in private homes and holiday accommodation
- Organised indoor events for up to 1,000 seated or 200 standing can take place, subject to a risk assessment and taking reasonable measures
- Ice rinks can re-open
- Remove the legal restrictions on the number of people who can gather outdoors
- Allow up to 30 children from organisations, such as the Brownies and Scouts, to attend residential centres over the summer holidays
From Saturday 7 August (if conditions allow) - Alert Level 0:
- Remove legal restrictions on the number of people who can meet indoors, including in private homes, public places or at events
- All businesses and premises can open, including nightclubs
- People should still work from home wherever possible
- Face coverings will remain a legal requirement indoors, with the exception of hospitality premises. This will be kept under review.

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 12th / 13th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 12th / 13th July 2021.

The UK added 36,660 cases today ( last week 28,773 / 2 weeks ago 20,479 / 3 weeks ago 11,625) and now has reported a total of 5,191,459 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,066,498 tests yesterday.

The counter says 45,978,017 people (87.3% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 34,997,491 people (66.4%) had received 2 doses and will be fully vaccinated 2 weeks after their second dose.

The number of people in hospital has still not been updated since last Thursday, when it was 2,731, with 417 using a ventilator.
Public Health England figures at 8am this morning show that, IN ENGLAND ALONE, 2,970 beds were occupied by COVID patients with 470 people using a ventilator. (Last Thursday in England those figures were 2,209 and 376.)

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 50 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,481 losses of life in all settings.

Total cases for the last 7 days:
Area: Cases / Rate per 100,000 population
Wales: 4,634 / 147
Scotland: 20,190 / 369.6
Northern Ireland: 3,432 / 181.2
England: 185,128 / 328.9

Rep. Of Ireland 278,464 cases and 5,006 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 188,387,431 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,059,110. Already 172,178,460 people have recovered.

All of Scotland will move to Level 0 on Monday July 19th. Congratulations / commiserations depending on your feelings.
Good news from a pandemic point of view is that they aren't letting the reins go entirely, so you should still be able to watch and point at us South of the border, at least a bit. Remaining restrictions include:
- Restaurants and pubs will have a midnight closing time.
- Mandatory use of face coverings will remain in place for some time to come.
Nicola Sturgeon said earlier:
"Lifting all restrictions and mitigations right now would put all of us at greater risk, but in particular it would make it much more difficult for the most clinically vulnerable to go about their normal lives. It would risk the imposition of shielding by default."
There are actually calls from several different directions for them to close the border with England, as so many outbreaks occur after people have visited. (You need another wall Nicola!!)

Boris Is Going For It. England Briefing 12th July 2021

Boris Is Going For It. England Briefing 12th July 2021

Cases: 5,155,243 (+34,471)
Loss of Life: 128,431 (+6)
In Hospital on Thursday 8th: 2,731
Using a Ventilator on Thursday 8th: 417
1st Dose: 45,923,721 (87.2% of UK adults)
2nd Dose: 34,872,131 (66.2%)

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Weekend Update 10th / 11th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Weekend Update 10th / 11th July 2021

The UK added 31,772 cases today and now has reported a total of 5,121,245 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,114,234 tests yesterday.

The counter says 45,881,721 people (87.1% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 34,764,511 people (66%) had received 2 doses.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 26 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,425 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 277,892 (+576) cases and 5,006 losses of life.

There have now been a total of 187,486,594 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,046,485. Already 171,397,639 people have recovered.

Public Health England Variant Surveillance has some figures on Delta Variant and vaccine efficacy against hospitalisation, and loss of life:
Up until June 21st, 1,904 people had been admitted to hospital in England with confirmed Delta Variant.
Of those hospitalised, 1,283 were under age 50
- 987 (77%) were unvaccinated, plus 106 (8%) less than 21 days after dose 1.
- 118 (9%) 21 or more days after their first dose of vaccine
- 48 (4%) fully vaccinated
Of those hospitalised, 615 were 50 or over.
- 195 (32 per cent) were unvaccinated, plus 11 (2%) less than 21 days after dose 1
- 140 (23%) 21 or more days after their first dose of vaccine
- 265 (43%) fully vaccinated.
Up until June 21st, 257 people with Delta Variant in England died within 28 days of a positive test.
Of those who died, 26 were under the age of 50
- 21 unvaccinated
- 3 were 21 days or more after one dose of vaccine
- 2 fully vaccinated
Of those who died, 231 were aged 50 or over
- 71 were unvaccinated, plus one person within 21 days of their first dose.
- 41 were 21 days or more after one dose of vaccine
- 116 fully vaccinated.
Bear in mind that the older you are, the more likely you are to be fully vaccinated, but also the more susceptible you are to becoming seriously ill. You can clearly see the effect of vaccinations, especially if you look at the figures for people aged under 50. 

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 9th June 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 9th June 2021

The UK added 35,707 cases today and now has reported a total of 5,058,093 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,114,234 tests yesterday.
Between 3 July 2021 and 9 July 2021, 206,046 people had a confirmed positive test result. This shows an increase of 30.7% compared to the previous 7 days.

The counter says 45,697,875 people had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 34,374,246 people had received 2 doses and will be considered fully vaccinated 14 days after that 2nd dose.

2,731 people were in hospital yesterday, Thursday 8th July, with 417 using a ventilator.
Between 29 June 2021 and 5 July 2021, 2,872 people went into hospital with coronavirus. This shows an increase of 55.9% compared to the previous 7 days.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 29 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,365 losses of life in all settings.
Between 3 July 2021 and 9 July 2021, there have been 176 deaths within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test. This shows an increase of 43.1% compared to the previous 7 days.

Rep. Of Ireland 276,735 (+631) cases and 5,006 losses of life.

There have now been a total of 186,618,031 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,030,970. Already 170,698,970 people have recovered.

“It's about preventing being exposed to the virus, and preventing you exposing others to the virus.
Look around in your community.
Know the local numbers.
If the virus is present in your community and you're a vulnerable person and you're not vaccinated, then you are potentially going to be exposed.
So the idea that everyone is protected and it’s “kumbaya” and everything goes back to normal, I think right now is a very dangerous assumption anywhere in the world.
We’d ask governments to be really careful at this moment, not to lose the gains that we’ve made.
This virus is evolving. This virus is changing, and we need to be very careful at this moment, so that the gains that have been hard won by the behaviours and actions of our populations are sustained. Individual behaviour and government support to that behaviour is extremely important.
And I would urge extreme caution in the complete lifting of public health and social measures at this time, because there are consequences for that."
Dr Mike Ryan, Executive Director, the World Health Organisation.
The UK Government can never say they weren't warned. 

Pop In A Box - Homewares By Post From Funko Pop! (Sent for review)

We all know Funko Pop! make collectibles featuring a huge range of pop culture favourites, but did you know they also make useful merchandise for around the home, and out and about? We've been sent a selection to look at - and there really was something to suit everyone...

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 7th / 8th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 7th / 8th July 2021

The UK added 32,551 cases today (up from 27,289 a week earlier) and now has reported a total of 5,022,893 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,237,992 tests yesterday.

The counter says 45,601,445 people (86.6% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 34,198,779 people (64.9%) had received 2 doses and will be fully vaccinated 14 days after their 2nd dose.

2,636 people were in hospital yesterday, Wednesday 7th July, (up from 1,795 a week earlier) with 417 people using a ventilator (up from 287 a week earlier).

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 35 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days (up from 22 a week earlier), making a total of 128,336 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 275,571 cases and 5,006 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 186,089,034 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 4,021,397. Already 170,239,895 people have recovered.

"The logic of 'more people being infected is better' is I think, logic that has proven its moral emptiness and epidemiological stupidity previously."
Dr Mike Ryan, Epidemiologist and Executive Director of the World Health Organisation's Health Emergencies Programme.
Yowch. Bet the UK's lead epidemiologist, Mr Chris Whitty, is smarting a bit from that slap. Here's another... 

Over 100 scientists, including a lot of the UK's big names, have published a letter in The Lancet today, explaining why a policy that allows mass infection should not be an option.
"We believe the government is embarking on a dangerous and unethical experiment, and we call on it to pause plans to abandon mitigations on July 19, 2021."
They make 5 main arguments against:
1. It will disproportionately affect young people. They estimate 17m people are unprotected and millions of infections will occur.
"This strategy risks creating a generation left with chronic health problems and disability, the personal and economic impacts of which might be felt for decades to come."
2. "...high rates of transmission in schools and in children will lead to significant educational disruption" which will involve all pupils and staff, and disproportionately affect disadvantaged children.
3. Variants. "...preliminary modelling data suggest the government's strategy provides fertile ground for the emergence of vaccine-resistant variants. This would place all at risk, including those already vaccinated, within the UK and globally".
4. We have a massive backlog for all kinds of care, diagnostics and treatment. The strategy will have a "significant impact on health services and exhausted health-care staff who have not yet recovered from previous infection waves".
5. "Fifth, as deprived communities are more exposed to and more at risk from COVID-19, these policies will continue to disproportionately affect the most vulnerable and marginalised, deepening inequalities."
There will be a press conference tomorrow morning at 10am. That should be an interesting one... 

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 5th / 6th July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 5th / 6th July 2021.

The UK added 28,773 cases today (up from 20,479 a week earlier: 11,625 two weeks earlier) and now has reported a total of 4,958,868 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,160,738 tests yesterday.

The counter says 45,428,681 people (86.2% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 33,874,176 people (64.3% of UK adults) had received 2 doses.

2,140 people were in hospital on Sunday 4th (up from1,585 a week earlier: 1,378 two weeks earlier), with 369 using a ventilator yesterday, 5th July (up from 297 a week earlier: 227 two weeks earlier).

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 37 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,268 official losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 274,641 cases and 5,000 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

The number of people who have officially lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 has passed the grave milestone of 4 million - 4,003,860 humans.
There have now been a total of 185,135,819 reported cases worldwide, and already 169,432,743 people have recovered.

"Before we started putting jabs into arms, whenever we saw a rise in cases, it would inevitably be followed by a rise in hospitalisations, and tragically a rise in deaths too.
Yet today, even though cases are heading upwards, in line with what we expected, hospitalisations are at a much lower rate, and deaths are at just 1% of the figure we saw at the peak."
(At first his maths didn't work at all, then I remembered we lost twice as many hospitalised people during the peak as we did at other times. So in reality - 2% of more usual numbers, which is horrific for all involved, yet still excellent, at around 0.04%, or 1 in every 2,500 cases. I hope that's true. I hate that they fudge numbers.)
"Our vaccines are building a wall of protection against hospitalisations , and jab by jab, brick by brick, that wall is getting higher. And for those people, who sadly do find themselves having to go to hospital, we have better treatments than ever before."
{Related story about Dexamethasone being a game changer.}
"And taken together, the link between cases, hospitalisations and deaths is being severely weakened, and this means we can start to learn to live with COVID."
Sajid Javid,  UK Health Secretary.

UK (England) Briefing with Boris Monday 5th July 2021

UK (England) Briefing with Boris Monday 5th July 2021

Cases: 4,930,534 (+27,334)
Losses of life: 128,231 (+9)
In Hospital: 1,905 (Thursday 1st)
Using a ventilator: 321 (Friday 2nd)
Vaccinated 1 dose: 45,351,719 (86.1% of UK adults)
Vaccinated 2 doses: 33,726,362 (64% of UK adults)

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Weekend Update 3rd./ 4th July 2021.

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Weekend Update 3rd./ 4th July 2021.

The UK added 24,248 cases today and now has reported a total of 4,903,434 positive cases of COVID-19.

The counter says 45,274,497 people (86% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 33,614,952 people (63.8% of UK adults) had received 2 doses.

1,905 people were in hospital on Thursday 1st, with 300 using a ventilator.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 15 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,222 losses of life in all settings.

Nation: Cases last 7 days:
Wales: 3,071
Scotland: 21,146
Northern Ireland: 1,931
England: 117,062

Rep. Of Ireland 274,306 (+562) cases and 5,000 losses of life.

There have now been a total of 184,422,326 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 3,990,050. Already 168,744,090 people have recovered.

"We are going to have to learn to live with Covid and find ways to cope with it – just as we already do with flu.
Please read my piece in the Mail on Sunday."
Sajid Javid, UK Health Secretary, sharing an update, but only with anyone willing to read the Mail On Sunday. Thankfully, after thousands of people made the same point, he shared a screenshot. The main headline is "The economic arguments for opening up are well known. But for me the health case is equally compelling".
He mentions domestic violence and mental health, both of which are incredibly important. He makes no mention at all of Long COVID.  

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 2nd / 3rd July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 2nd / 3rd July 2021

The UK added 27,125 cases today and now has reported a total of 4,855,169 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,121,678 tests yesterday.

The counter says 45,013,503 people (85.5% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 33,241,265 people (63.1% of UK adults) had received 2 doses.

1,795 people were in hospital with COVID on Wednesday 30th June, with 300 using a ventilator yesterday, 1st July.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 27 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,189 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 272,784 cases and 5,000 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 183,594,196 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 3,974,337. Already 168,034,808 people have recovered.

"The time for lofty words is over. There needs to be concerted action, backed by financial resources to mitigate the consequences of climate change, while we work to keep temperatures down and scale green innovations.
We are in a very dangerous period of this pandemic. In those countries with low vaccination coverage, terrible scenes of hospitals overflowing are again becoming the norm. But no country on Earth is out of the woods yet.
The Delta Variant is dangerous and is continuing to evolve and mutate.
Delta has been detected in at least 98 countries and is spreading quickly in countries with low and high vaccination coverage.
There are essentially two ways for countries to push back against the surge:
1. public health measures incl. surveillance, testing, physical distancing, masks, etc.
2. the world must equitably share protective gear, oxygen tests, treatments, and vaccines."
Dr Tedros, Head of the World Health Organisation.
He has asked that by September, 10% of people in every country are vaccinated, with a priority to health care workers. He also asks world leaders to work together so that by this time next year, 70% of people in every country are vaccinated. 

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 30th June / 1st July 2021

COVID-19 Coronavirus UK and World News Update 30th June / 1st July 2021

The UK added 27,989 cases today and now has reported a total of 4,828,463 positive cases of COVID-19. We completed 1,251,696 tests yesterday.

The counter says 44,860,978 people (85.2% of UK adults) had been given at least one dose of a vaccine in the UK by midnight last night. 33,048,199 people (including me!!) had received 2 doses (62.7%).

1,795 people were in hospital yesterday, Wednesday 30th June, with 287 using a ventilator.

In the 24 hours up until 5pm yesterday, we officially reported the loss of another 22 people who have tested positive to COVID-19 within 28 days, making a total of 128,162 losses of life in all settings.

Rep. Of Ireland 271,931 cases and 4,989 losses of life. (Not yet reported today.)

There have now been a total of 183,193,215 reported cases worldwide. The number of people who have lost their lives worldwide to COVID-19 is 3,966,093. Already 167,720,509 people have recovered.

The UK's Furlough Scheme starts winding down from today. This month employers have to contribute 10% of furloughed worker's pay. Next month that will rise to 20%. For any business who can't afford that, or for whom it's becoming obvious life "won't be the same as before", this will be the time hard decisions may have to be made. It'll take a couple of weeks before we see the true effect, and next month it will only be more pronounced.
Sorry to anyone to is in danger of losing their job or their business. Sorry to anyone who already has.