Extra Covid testing after South African variant found in Middlesbrough

EXTRA coronavirus testing is being carried out in Middlesbrough following the detection of a case of the South African variant.

An additional test centre has been set up at the Parkway Centre, in Coulby Newham, and anybody over the age of 16 from Marton and Coulby Newham is being urged to get tested.

An appointment is not needed.

Esther Mireku, consultant in public health in Middlesbrough, said: “I urge everyone over the age of 16 in the Marton and Coulby Newham areas to come forward for a test.

“This will help us understand more about the potential spread of this new variant.

“While the overall Covid infection rate in Middlesbrough has now halved from its peak in early January, it has still not decreased as much as we would have liked.

“The high prevalence of Covid in the town, combined with the reporting of this variant, are a reminder to everyone of the importance of staying at home as much as possible and following hands-face-space when out for an essential reason.”

According to Public Health England data, Middlesbrough currently has the fifth highest infection rate in England.As of February 8, the rate per 100,000 people stood at 357.5, down slightly from 359.6 the week before.

Mayor Andy Preston said: “New variants are popping up in different towns and cities around the country.

“What’s really important now is that we establish whether the variant has spread further around Middlesbrough.”

Simon Clarke, Conservative MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said: “This case has been detected thanks to the efficiency of our robust testing regime. “Vaccinations continue at pace and cases in Middlesbrough continue to fall.”

 “So while there is no cause for undue alarm, I would urge anybody aged 16 and over from the Marton and Coulby Newham areas, as well as anybody who regularly visits the Parkway Centre, to get tested whether or not you have symptoms.” 

Tees Valley’s elected mayor, Ben Houchen, said people in the area should not be “overly alarmed”.

He said: “Our region has made phenomenal progress in vaccinating the majority of our most vulnerable residents thanks to the hard work and dedication of our NHS heroes.”

Mr Houchen said it was still critical for people to follow the rules to protect others.

Surge testing has been used in a number of areas across the country in attempts to get on top of new variants of the disease.

People in areas of Lambeth in south London as well as parts of Worcestershire, Manchester, Kent and Surrey have all been offered tests when cases of new strains have been identified.