Richmond residents have been warned about a resurgence of coronavirus as infection rates rise to among the worst in London.

High infection rates among teens and children have disrupted their learning, affecting school attendance and opportunities to learn.

At the same time, some schools in the borough are seeing a rise in teacher absence due to the infection.

Currently, case numbers in Richmond are running at 396 cases per 100,000 , which is well above the London's average of 227 but below the UK figure of 414.

On a positive note, Richmond currently has a higher percentage uptake for both doses of the vaccine than London in general, with 73% of locals having received their first dose and 68% their second.

Richmond Borough Council said most cases have been in the younger population and it is urging residents to take advantage of the offer of vaccinations for 12-15 year olds.

The borough council is asking parents to discuss taking the vaccine with their child when it is offered to them at school or through walk-in vaccination clinics that will be available in the coming weeks.

Council leader, Cllr Gareth Roberts, said: "I do feel that the country has become a tad complacent over the past few months. And with nearly all restrictions now gone, schools have gone back and the vaccine programme continuing, some might say that we have confined COVID-19 to history.

"In short that is wrong. COVID-19 is still here. It is still deadly. And it can still play havoc with our economy, our children's education, and our long-term health. We must not be complacent.

"It is important for everyone to play their part and help keep our communities safe. There are three steps to a safer way of living. They are simple:

• Remember hands, face, space and fresh air.

• Take a rapid test regularly and stop the spread of infection to others unknowingly.

• Get vaccinated as soon as you can, make sure you have your second dose (and your booster if eligible). If you have children aged 12 or over – please encourage them to have the jab.

He added: "I know that some people on social media will say I am a broken record, and it is time to move on. Well – it isn't time. I will stop when COVID-19 stops being a live threat to our lives."

Twickenham MP, Munira Wilson, raised the issue in the House of Commons this week, pointing out that schools in this area are losing teachers and children because they are sick and self-isolating.

In a question to the Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, she said: "Schools in my own constituency like Hampton High had 11 teachers absent yesterday, yet have been advised against reintroducing masks and have been told to teach 700 plus pupils outdoors.

"Could I ask the Secretary of State (a) does he think that is sensible advice and (b) will he ramp up vaccinations of teenagers, particularly over the half-term?"

Mr Javid said the government is ramping up vaccination for those aged 12-15. "I think it is important that they do come forward and take up that offer," he said