Covid cases are on the rise again in Wiltshire so health leaders are urging families to remain vigilant to risks over the summer months.

Great Western Hospital was caring for 47 patients with coronavirus on Tuesday.

Health officials have called for people to act "cautiously" as young and old will come together for holiday festivities such as Eid al-Adha.

GWH, Royal United Bath and Salisbury District Hospital were treating 39 per cent more Covid patients on June 29 than the previous week.

Sub-variants of Omicron are responsible for a spike in Covid-19 cases in Swindon and the situation is being "monitored", according to Swindon Borough Council's director of public health.

The region's chief medical officer Dr Amanda Webb said: “History tells us that it does not take long for Covid-19 cases to increase dramatically, and with families coming together over the coming days to celebrate Eid, or just to enjoy the warmer weather, it is important that we all remain vigilant.

“If it’s possible to do so, take celebrations outside, where the risk of passing on the virus is lower or, if the weather isn’t good, try to open doors and windows to help fresh air keep crowded rooms ventilated.

“These small steps, along with getting all necessary Covid-19 vaccinations, will help to keep friends and family, especially those who may be older or living with a longterm health condition, safe while we enjoy the summer months.”

Despite the increase in hospital cases, Covid death rates are still low. Last week, four people with Covid died in a seven-day period.

But the region's Integrated Care Board leaders are urging people showing symptoms to limit their contact with others to help keep transmission low. 

In recent months, the Covid symptoms list has grown. It now includes headaches, runny noses, sore throats, general fatigue, a shortness or breath and diarrhoea.

Many of these are similar to symptoms felt by people suffering with colds, flu and hay fever.

And some people who now test positive no longer experience the well-publicised coronavirus symptoms of a cough, high temperature or a change to their taste or smell.

In total, 180,932 people in Swindon have had their first Covid vaccine while 137,961 have received their booster dose. The vaccine is still available at Steam Museum in Swindon.

All local vaccination sites, including those offering the jab without the need for an appointment, are listed online at www.nhs.uk