THERE has been a further increase in the number of Isle of Wight community Covid deaths, according to the latest government data.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures reveal two new community deaths in the last two weeks ­— both attributed to Covid-19.

One care home death was recorded in the week up to September 24, and a death in a hospice was recorded in the week up to September 17.

These are the first deaths in a care home or hospice on the Isle of Wight, due to Covid, recorded since April.

It takes the total number of deaths in the Isle of Wight community involving the virus this year ­— comprising those in care homes, hospices, households and 'elsewhere' ­— to 86.

Of these, 74 were recorded in care homes, seven at home, three in a hospice and two 'elsewhere'.

ONS statistics are based on any mention of Covid-19 on the death certificate.

Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 139 community Covid deaths ­— 122 in care homes, ten at home, four in the hospice, one in 'another communal setting', and two 'elsewhere'.

Figures released last week revealed two more people had died in the Isle of Wight's hospital after contracting Covid-19.

More than 100 new Isle of Wight Covid cases have been confirmed today (Tuesday).