Coronavirus (COVID-19) roundup: 26 March 2021

ONS have published the latest Coronavirus Infection Survey (CIS) findings, as well as new data from the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey, and retail sales figures for February 2021. They

have also published experimental statistics on self-isolation in England. The main points include: 

• In England, the percentage of people testing positive for the coronavirus is likely to have levelled off in the week ending 20 March 2021

• The percentage of children in school years 7 to 11 in England testing positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19) increased in the week ending 20 March 2021, while the percentage of people testing positive has continued to decrease in those in school years 12 to age 34 years and in those aged 50 to 69 years

• The percentage of people testing positive for COVID-19 appeared level in Wales and Northern Ireland, and appeared to increase in Scotland

• Of people who had recently reached the end of the required self-isolation period following a positive COVID-19 test, 86% reported behaviour that fully adhered to self-isolation requirements

• Almost a third (32%) of respondents reported a loss of income as a result of self-isolation, with 13% of those who were in work prior to self-isolating reporting not being paid during their isolation period

• More than 90% of adults report no difficulties when getting the coronavirus vaccine

• There has been a rise in adults meeting up outdoors. Almost 1 in 4 adults (23%) have met up with someone outside their household or support bubble outdoors (when not for work or education purposes)

• In February 2021, the amount spent on retail was 2.2% higher, and the quantity bought was up 2.1% when compared with January 2021

• This signalled only modest growth in the sector following the large fall in January (8.2%) reflecting the continuation of coronavirus restrictions

Read the ONS roundup