 Coronavirus weekly figures: 12-18 Nov COVID-19 rates are now the highest they have been in Shropshire, with cases still rising. In the week of 12-18 November, 1,765 positive cases were reported – an increase of 14% on the previous week. There were 39 people being treated for COVID-19 in our local hospitals and sadly, a further 12 deaths. Shropshire's director of public health, Rachel Robinson, is urging people to protect themselves and do their bit to minimise the spread of the virus.   You can Grab a Jab at the Darwin Centre If you're out Christmas shopping in Shrewsbury trying to grab a Black Friday deal on Saturday, you can also grab a jab. There is a national focus on getting as many people vaccinated this weekend ahead of the festive period, whether it's the 1st or 2nd dose, or booster if you are eligible. The Shropshire Local unit on the top floor of the shopping centre will be hosting a pop-up vaccination clinic between 1pm and 5pm. 12 to 15 year olds can get the 1st dose if they are accompanied by a parent or carer. The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt hospital near Oswestry is also offering the vaccine. Click here for more details.  Spot checks will start on Monday Our health protection team is working with the Health and Safety Executive to ensure that businesses have measures in place to minimise the spread of the virus. The spot checks start on Monday and will focus mainly on the hospitality sector in the run up to Christmas. The team will be offering advice and guidance to protect workers, customers and visitors.  Changes to Bridgnorth MTU The mobile testing unit in Bridgnorth will be operational four days a week going forwards. It was hoped the site, the car park behind Cantern Brook offices in Stanley Lane, would be suitable throughout the week, but an issue with parking has been identified. We have agreed with the Department of Health and Social Care to deploy the MTU on Saturdays and Sundays (9am to 3pm) and Mondays and Tuesdays (9.30am to 3pm). Please note however, this Monday coming it will not be open until 10am. Booking is essential. This can be done online here or by calling 119. Many of you will be heading to the Christmas fayre in Ludlow this weekend. We would like to encourage everyone to take a lateral flow test to check for COVID-19 before attending. When you are there, please practice good hand hygiene, social distance where necessary and wear a face covering when you are in busy areas. Please also note that the mobile testing unit in Ludlow will be closed this weekend because the site is needed for the event. It will reopen on Monday morning. | 
