Barnet Council has launched a campaign to tackle the spread of Covid-19, after the local case rate rose to be among the highest in London.

The council launched the campaign urging residents to follow key safety advice, producing posters to put up in businesses and public spaces, alongside images to share on social media.

It comes after the borough recorded 1,101 new cases of Covid-19 per 100,000 people in the seven days to 12th January, according to data from Public Health England, making it the eighth-highest rate in the capital.

In mid-December, Barnet had one of the lowest rates in London despite recording more than 1,000 cases per 100,000 people.

The number of patients in hospital with Covid-19 at Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Barnet Hospital, has more than tripled since mid-December, but continues to remain significantly below the peak recorded at this time last year.

On 8th January, the most recent date available for individual NHS trusts, the seven-day average of hospital patients with Covid-19 being treated by Royal Free was 227.3. That compares to 70.6 on 11th December and 510.9 recorded on 16th January 2021.

With more than a quarter of residents yet to get their first vaccine, the town hall is working with local community groups and businesses to boost uptake. It is also urging people to wear a face covering in public places, let fresh air in, meet outdoors, take tests, and isolate if they are feeling unwell.

Dr Tamara Djuretic, director of public health at Barnet Council, warned the NHS and other essential services were under pressure because of “regular winter illnesses, Covid-19, and a high number of staff having to isolate after testing positive”.

Dr Djuretic said: “Sadly, the pandemic is not yet over, so it is vital that we do all that we can to keep the virus in the cold in the coming months. I urge everyone to get the vaccine – their first, second and booster jab. The vaccines significantly reduce the chances of getting seriously ill or dying from Covid-19.

“Please wear a face covering in public places and transport to help reduce transmission. Let fresh air in and wash your hands regularly to stop Covid-19 from hanging around.

“Rapid test before entering crowded or enclosed spaces and before meeting a vulnerable person to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.

“Self-isolate immediately if you are feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms of Covid-19. Book a PCR test and follow the latest self-isolation guidance.”