Latest figures show that, in the most recent 7 day period, the Covid-19 infection rate among 10 to 14 year olds was 1,244.8 cases per 100,000. In comparison, the city wide infection rate in the same 7 days was 372.5 cases per 100,000.
The City of Wolverhampton Council recommended a fortnight ago that secondary schools reintroduce a requirement for pupils, staff and visitors to wear face coverings in communal areas, as well as on school transport. The only exception is if someone is exempt for medical reasons.
Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: "Covid-19 infection rates among school aged children, particularly secondary aged pupils, are considerably higher than in the wider population, and we need to do everything we can to stop the transmission of the virus.
"Face coverings have an important role to play in this, and I ask that students, staff and visitors to secondary schools continue to wear them where recommended.
"Secondary school pupils, and all school staff, should also continue to take a rapid Covid-19 test twice a week, as this will help identify cases in people without symptoms and help stop the spread of the virus.
"Covid-19 vaccinations are now also being offered to 12 to 15 year olds in schools across the Black Country, and it's important that as many children and young people are able to get their jabs, not only to protect themselves but also the wider community."
For details of rapid testing, for people without symptoms of Covid-19, please visit Coronavirus Testing. Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 is reminded that they must self isolate and book a test by calling 119 or visiting GOV.UK.
For more information about the vaccination programme for 12 to 15 year olds, please visit NHS - 12 to 15 year olds.
