EVERY resident in one of Warrington’s neighbouring towns has been advised to take a coronavirus test amid a suspected rise in Indian variant cases.
All Northwich and Winsford residents have been told by Cheshire West and Chester Council to book a PCR test whether they have Covid-19 symptoms or not.
In the past seven days, the council’s public health team has noticed a large increase in the number of positive virus cases in the mid-Cheshire towns.
Testing data is showing that these cases are more likely to belong to the new Delta variant B.1.671.2 first discovered in India.
This strain is more transmissible than previous variants and cases are rising in other areas of the north west, such as Bolton and Blackburn.
The appeal for mass testing comes after it was recently confirmed that a member of the public who has contracted coronavirus entered a number of pubs in Northwich on Saturday, May 22.
The council says across the borough it is managing a number of outbreaks in businesses and schools.
Cllr Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “It is extremely important that everyone in this local community gets tested, so that prompt public health actions can be implemented to prevent outbreaks and the impact on the local population and economy.
“Many businesses are open and enjoying getting back to work, but as we have seen in the last week, they may have to close if they experience an increase in infections or their staff have to isolate as a result of being a contact of a confirmed case.
READ> Covid-19 cases in Warrington double in space of a week
“We want businesses to continue trading. It is vital that their staff and customers are tested regularly to prevent further infection.
“We encourage everyone to get vaccinated when they are invited to do so. We can prevent spread of this current variant if everyone gets tested and follows the guidance on hands, face, space and fresh air.
“It is also important for schools when they return from half term holidays to continue twice weekly testing with lateral flow tests to prevent spread and avoid disruption.”
To book a test, you should visit gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or call 119.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article