Latest complete data from Public Health England shows that the Covid-19 infection rate for Maldon district has dropped to the lowest since Tier 4 restrictions were introduced on 20 December.

In the seven days leading up to 20 January, there was a total of 272 new cases recorded in the Maldon district, equal to 419 cases per 100,000 people.

The infection rate for the whole county area has also continued to drop, with 7,311 cases recorded over the seven days to 19 January, equal to 490.1 cases per 100,000.

At the peak of the county's infection rates in early January, both Maldon and Essex had an infection rate well in excess of 1,100 per 100,000 population.

As the fight to get the virus back under control continues, Essex County Council (ECC) has urged residents without symptoms (asymptomatic) in every district of the county to book a lateral flow 'fast' test at their local testing centre. In the case of Maldon district, the testing centre is at West Maldon Community Centre in Sunbury Way. The postcode is CM9 6YH.

Dr Mike Gogarty, ECC's Director of Public Health, said: "The new fast Lateral Flow Test (LFT) centres are an integral part of our Covid-19 response in Essex and represent an important shift in terms of our focus and approach to testing across the county.

"Although the light is at the end of the tunnel with the roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccine, we are not there yet and local health services remain under significant pressure. We need anyone not showing Covid-19 symptoms to play their part and book a LFT as soon as they can."

Councillor John Spence, ECC's Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: "I would urge anyone not showing Covid-19 symptoms and especially those who have to go out to work in situations where they are more exposed to the infection to get tested as soon as possible. This really will make a difference in terms of containing the spread and reducing the current pressure on our precious health services."

Tests are by appointment only and bookings should be made online. Residents who live in the Maldon district can book a 'fast' 30-minute test via the link here.

Booking online should be the quickest and most effective option for residents seeking a lateral flow test. If anyone is not able to book using the online form, they can call 0333 772 6144 to arrange an appointment. Lines are open from 8am to 8pm, every day including Saturday and Sunday.

Residents can also email to book via the link here and a member of staff will get in contact to arrange an appointment.

Anyone WITH symptoms should book a test via the NHS Test and Trace App via the link here.