Covid deaths have risen sharply in Bracknell Forest over the past week, the latest government figures show. 

The data reveals that between April 2 and April 8 deaths increased by 800 per cent in the borough compared to the previous seven days. 

During that period there have been nine deaths within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test. Whilst the total number is relatively small, it is the most weekly deaths seen in the borough since early February and hospital admissions across Berkshire are rising. 

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As of April 5, there were 184 patients in Frimley Health - with two coronavirus patients in hospital beds with a mechanical ventilator. 

This is despite the number of cases in the borough falling, as 770 people received a confirmed positive test result - a decrease of 38.4 per cent compared to the previous seven days. 

Bracknell News:

However, this likely doesn’t present an accurate reflection of the prevalence in the borough as the number of tests carried out in the borough has decreased by 31 per cent since last week. 

A spokesperson for Bracknell Forest Council said: "While the data shows nine deaths within 28 days of a positive test were recorded in the last seven days, it also shows that three of those nine people had COVID-19 on their death certificate. This indicates that, while all nine had tested positive for COVID-19 in that timeframe, for six people it was not the cause of their death.

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"As access to lateral flow and PCR testing for the general public was withdrawn nationally on April 1, data from that date onwards will be influenced by that. Given the removal of free tests for the general public, it is impossible for us to draw any comparisons over that time frame.

"[...] it is now more important than ever that people get vaccinated when eligible, wear face coverings in crowded areas, meet outdoors if possible or keep rooms well ventilated when meeting indoors, wash hands regularly, stay at home when they are unwell and respect other people’s choices."

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The reduction in the number of tests carried out coincides with the government's decision to end nationwide free testing at the start of this month. 

Lloyds Pharmacy is now selling single lateral flow tests for £1.89 or a pack of five for £9.29. 

Deaths are rising nationally which has led to the NHS Confederation accusing the government of “abandoning any interest in Covid whatsoever” and issuing a stark warning that hospitals are set for a “brutal Easter as bad as any winter.” 

This statement comes as figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showing that a record one in 13 people in England being infected with coronavirus.