Covid cases in the Maldon district are increasing, despite daily figures showing infections falling for five consecutive days in the UK.

The average rate in the Maldon district - which covers Maldon, Burnham-on-Crouch and the Dengie Peninsula - is around 490 per 100,000 people. This is an increase on the case rate for the week leading up to 19 July, which stood at 476.

Dr Mike Gogarty, Director of Public Health for Essex, said: "Rates in Essex are now increasing faster than the national rate and doubling every ten days or so. The average rate in Essex is about 530 with the national rate about 510."

Dr Gogarty added: "Rates in men across Essex are now around 650 in every 100,000 people, and in women about 490. It is likely this is the result of behaviour during the Euros, but not proven."

Covid cases are particularly high in young people in the county. Dr Gogarty said: "Rates in Essex are especially high in young adults aged 18-21, with rates at nearly 1,750 per 100,000 per week, with rates in 21-39 and secondary-aged children getting over 1,000.

"In contrast, rates in people aged over 60 who have had higher levels of vaccination are about 100. This is high but of less concern."

As cases rise, Essex County Council is encouraging residents to get vaccinated.

Dr Gogarty said: "Pressures on hospitals due to Covid cases are increasing but remain far below the terrible rates we saw at Christmas. This is entirely due to the vaccine and I implore all people of Essex, especially those over 50, to have the vaccine if you have not.

"As cases rise and rise it is the only protection."