THURROCK Council has released details of the latest Covid-19 infection infections in the borough, with council leader Cllr Rob Gledhill paying tribute to the work of an information service run by he authority.

Cllr Gledhill says: "It is great to see continuing improvements in the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 in Thurrock but it is also clear that there is still need for caution.

"This global pandemic is by no means over and it is vital that we not only keep following hands, face, space, fresh air advice, we also need to respect other people's decisions as they use their judgement to manage the risks as they see them.

"As well as taking sensible precautions the most important way we can all play a part in making sure that we continue to enjoy the freedoms we have regained since 19 July is to take up the offer of a vaccine and get both doses to ensure we are fully protected.

"The vaccines are a remarkable achievement by some of the greatest minds in the world. They have been developed, rigorously tested on people of all ages and billions of doses have now been delivered globally, with more than 185,000 doses given in Thurrock alone.

"We know that they are highly effective in ensuring that those who have had them do not become seriously ill from COVID-19. Once you have had two doses of the vaccine you are actually 90% less likely to end up in hospital as a result of contracting coronavirus.

"We have seen excellent take up amongst over 40s and now we need people aged 18 - 39 to play their part and take up the vaccine offer. It not only protects you, your family, friends, work colleagues and neighbours it will also be a vital component in foreign travel for the foreseeable future and from Monday those who have had both doses will no longer be required to self-isolate if they are pinged

"It is also important that we all remember to take care of other health issues and seek the advice and support we need to stay well in body and mind. Thurrock First is a telephone service that makes sure you get connected to the services and support you need. It is a fantastic first port of call for anyone with concerns about their physical or mental well-being. There is more information about this service below in this email.

"Let's build on the gains we have made by staying cautious, respecting others and above all taking up the offer of the vaccine."