The seven-day coronavirus infection rate dropped again in Barnet shortly before the borough was due to emerge from the national lockdown.

During the week to November 27, the borough’s Covid-19 infection rate was 141.5 new cases per 100,000 people – down by almost 13 per cent on the previous week’s figure.

It marked the second week of decline following a spike in the seven days to November 13, when the infection rate in Barnet hit 195.3 per 100,000.

The data is based on figures from Public Health England published on the Government’s online coronavirus dashboard. It is subject to slight variations, as the figures are continually revised.

Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people in Barnet (Source: Public Health England)

Colindale again recorded the highest number of new cases – 28 in the seven days to November 26, according to the latest information published on a Government map of ‘middle layer super output areas’. This marked a 15 per cent decrease on the previous seven days, however.

Other areas with relatively high case numbers included Burnt Oak and Watling Park (25 cases) and West Hendon (24).

Many areas – including Totteridge and Barnet Gate, High Barnet and Hadley, Church End, Fallow Corner and Grahame Park – saw fewer than ten new cases.

According to the latest information from Barnet Council, most age groups are seeing a decrease in Covid cases, although there has been a slight rise among those aged 10 to 19.

London has now entered Tier 2 restrictions, meaning non-essential businesses can reopen with safeguards in place to stop the spread of the virus. Council leader Cllr Dan Thomas urged people to stay vigilant and follow the public health guidelines designed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

On Wednesday, the Government announced the approval of the first vaccine against Covid-19 for use in the UK. A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said it will be made available across the country from next week, with priority given to vulnerable groups.