South Essex is still seeing more than 1,000 coronavirus cases recorded every week.

The latest data shows Basildon saw the highest number of infections in the seven days ending September 25 with 451.

That was an increase of 64 from the week before.

Southend recorded two more cases (382) in the latest period compared to the week before.

Rochford saw 226 cases and Castle Point 194, according to the latest data.

Infections continue to drop in Thurrock, which saw 357 in the week ending September 25.

Below is a list of the 10 areas in south Essex which recorded the highest number of cases in that period, with the latest infection rates per 100,000 people in brackets:

  • Hockley and Hawkwell West 54 (337.6)
  • Corringham South 45 (633.2)
  • Victoria 40 (307.1)
  • New Thundersley 32 (413.2)
  • Barstable 36 (408.8)
  • Steeple View and Noak Bridge 31 (344.9)
  • Chalkwell – 30 (288.5)
  • Rayleigh North West 29 (315.2)
  • Laindon Central 29 (286.5)
  • Eastwood Park 27 (286.5)

It comes as research has found it is safe for people to get coronavirus and flu vaccines at the same time.

A clinical trial found that reported side effects were mainly mild to moderate.

There were also no negative impacts on the immune response produced by either vaccine when both were given on the same day, in opposite arms.

The Combining Influenza and Covid-19 Vaccination (ComFluCov) study looked at whether it was safe to give both jabs together.

Researchers say the results reinforce current coronavirus booster vaccine guidance which is for both jabs to be given together where it is practically possible.

Dr Rajeka Lazarus is consultant in infectious diseases and microbiology at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) and chief investigator for the ComFluCov study.

She said: “By conducting this study we have been able to establish that it is possible to protect people from both Covid-19 and flu at the same appointment.

“This is a really positive step which could mean fewer appointments for those who require both vaccines, reducing the burden on those who have underlying health conditions and would usually be offered the influenza vaccine.”

Dr Lazarus added: “This is already happening.

“These data have been shared with JCVI and with MHRA to help support the regulations that they’ve already made in preparation for this season.”

Two Covid and three flu vaccines were tested, meaning six combinations in all.

Study participants were over the age of 18 and had already received one dose of either the Pfizer/BioNTech or the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab, and were awaiting their second dose.

A total of 679 volunteers took part in the study across 12 NHS sites in England and Wales.