Coronavirus latest: 26 new cases and one death in Luton today

The total number of cases in the borough now stands at 19,790 (+26).

Over the past seven days, 286 people were diagnosed with Covid-19 in Luton, up by 11 (+4%) from the previous week.

One new deaths (within 28 days of a positive test) was reported in Luton today, with 492 in total since the pandemic began

The case rate in Luton is now 131.4 per 100,000.

There have been 4,319,128 lab-confirmed cases across the UK, up by a daily rise of 6,397.

126,445 deaths have been recorded within 28 days of a positive test, up by 63.

A further easing of coronavirus restrictions is due to take place next week (March 29) in England, to coincide with the beginning of the school Easter holidays.

From Monday, March 29, larger groups of up to six people or two households will be allowed to gather in parks and gardens.

From this point, the “stay at home” order will also end and the government will instead encourage people to stay local where possible.