AN ASTONISHING leap in Covid positives has been recorded today on the Isle of Wight - a record 459 people.

The previous record was 170 in one day, on New Year's Day.

Today's shocking figure takes the Island's cumulative total to 2,446 since the pandemic began. This represents nearly a fifth of all cases, recorded in one day. The total was 1,987 yesterday.

Isle of Wight County Press: Government data showing the Isle of Wight cases. There is a lag in the daily data, shown in grey. Government data showing the Isle of Wight cases. There is a lag in the daily data, shown in grey.

The rate per 100,000 is now 426.7 on the Isle of Wight, but that data is five days behind. It puts us above average in the UK for the first time, and rising.

The government's interactive map shows the extent of the cases here.

Isle of Wight County Press:

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St Mary's Hospital is urging people to follow the guidelines and stay at home, while it looks after Covid patients.

Read more: What is the situation at St Mary's Hospital?

Primary schools on the Island are set to open tomorrow, but concerns have been raised.

Read more: UNISON says schools aren't safe

Read more: Islanders react to school opening plans