Virus rate highest in uni area

Unsurprisingly, the area of the district which has the highest infection rate is home to the University of Kent. Called Blean Forest, Chartham Hatch and University, it recorded a rate of 158.5 on October 22 - more than double the Kent average.

UKC bosses this week confirmed that 29 students and one staff member were isolating after recently testing positive for Covid-19.

A breakdown is not provided for whether they have been recorded at the city’s campus or its base in Medway.

But it has been revealed that of the students with coronavirus, 24 are living in halls of residence.

The new cases bring the total number confirmed at UKC to 96 - including two staff members - since the start of the academic year on September 7. Those self-isolating are provided with a package of care by the university, which includes a box of essentials; help with laundry, cleaning and food deliveries; welfare checks; and a programme of activities.

A UKC spokesman said: “We have been working closely with Public Health England, NHS Test and Trace and local health protection teams throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Following their guidance, we take immediate and appropriate action in response to suspected and positive cases of Covid-19 among our staff and students.” Meanwhile, eight students at Canterbury Christ Church University also tested positive last week, bringing its total number of confirmed cases to 45 since September 7.

UKC has reported 96 cases