People in Staffordshire are being urged to help keep Covid-19 case rates falling by sticking to the guidance, getting tested and getting vaccinated.

The latest data shows Staffordshire's case rate is 710.4 per 100,000 population and now lies below the national and regional average. The average for England is slightly higher at 792.3 and the West Midlands average is 728.3.

Most of the restrictions put in place last year to help curb the spread of the Omicron variant have now been lifted, but people are encouraged to continue to follow guidance such as wearing a face covering in busy, crowded areas or when meeting people they do not live with.

Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care, Dr Johnny McMahon, highlighted the important role vaccines have played in protecting people during the latest peak in infection.

He said: "Staffordshire's case rate continues to fall from its Omicron peak in January, but it's important to remember that current case rates are still higher than previous peaks seen in 2021. Many more people now have better protection against the virus which highlights how important it is for people to get fully vaccinated and boosted as soon as they are eligible. The good news is that it has never been easier to get a vaccine, with walk-in clinics across the county offering doses without the need to book an appointment."

Director for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council, Dr Richard Harling, echoed Johnny's message and also reiterated the importance of continuing to follow the guidance.

He said: "We can all keep taking steps to minimise our risk of catching and spreading Covid-19, including continuing to wear face coverings and testing prior to meeting people we do not live with or going to busy indoor settings such as shops, public transport and workplaces. Sticking to these behaviours and getting vaccinated will hopefully see case rates continue to fall."

Anybody aged over 12 years old is eligible for a Covid vaccine, and people aged 16 and over can get a booster vaccine if three months have passed since their second dose.