THE Omicron variant of Covid is spreading rapidly in all parts of Wrexham - but it is hoped that it has reached its peak.

The Omicron variant is now the predominant one circulating in Wrexham communities as well as the rest of Wales.

But, the latest Covid update from Wrexham Council says there are positive signs of reductions in the spread of the virus.

The update says: "We remain hopeful that as an area and a country that the peak of the current wave of infections has now been passed and that we will see spread continue to reduce.

"Whilst this variant has proven to be less damaging to the health of the nation it remains a threat.

"As the position improves our goal will be to report on the positive steps Wrexham as an area can and will be taking towards recovery in the coming months."

The seven-day rate for cases reported in Wrexham on Friday was 1366.6/100,000 population.

For the week ending January 2 it was 2191.1/100,000 population, which is the worst is has been since the pandemic began in 2020, twice the 1,096 reported two weeks ago and more than three times the 602 reported four weeks ago.

Positivity (the indicator of community transmission) was 51.7%, compared to 38.7% two weeks ago and 18.8% four weeks ago, indicating extremely rapid community transmission.

Wrexham’s relative position in Wales for cases per 100k population is 8th, compared to 16th two weeks ago and 2nd four weeks ago. Wrexham is 6th for positivity, compared to 3rd two weeks ago and 4th four weeks ago.

The highest rate of infection is amongst the 20-29 age group (a change from the previous six months when it was the under 20s), but it is growing rapidly in the over 60s which is having a knock-on effect on hospital admissions.

Hospital admissions (122) have doubled in four weeks, but with deaths (four) thankfully still remain low compared to Waves 1, 2 and 3 of the pandemic, supporting evidence that the vaccine and booster are highly effective - there is a very much higher chance of being admitted to hospital and intensive care (ICU) if you have not been vaccinated or received a booster.

Five measures to stay safe:

  • Get vaccinated – and if you’ve had your booster appointment, please make this your priority.
  • If you’re going out, going shopping or visiting people – flow before you go. Take a lateral flow test. If it’s positive – don’t go out.
  • Meeting outdoors is better than indoors. If you’re meeting indoors make sure it’s well ventilated.
  • Space out your socialising – if you’ve got lots of events arranged, please leave at least a day between events.
  • And don’t forget about social distancing, wearing a face covering and washing your hands.