Extra support to tackle Delta variant in more areas of North West and Birmingham

Extra support to tackle a rise in cases of the Delta variant, which was first recorded in India, has been announced for more areas of the North West and Birmingham.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The additional support will be introduced in Birmingham Blackpool, Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Liverpool City Region and Warrington, a spokesman for the Department of Health and Social Care said on Monday.

The package, which is the same as was announced for Greater Manchester and Lancashire last week, will see more support for surge testing, tracing, isolation support and maximising vaccine uptake after a number of cases of the Delta variant were detected in the areas.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Those living in the areas will also be given extra guidance including to minimise travel in and out of the affected areas.

Blackpool is one of the areas which will receive additional supportBlackpool is one of the areas which will receive additional support
Blackpool is one of the areas which will receive additional support
Read More
This map shows how many covid cases are near you as 21 June set to be delayed

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We are doing everything we can to stop the spread of the Delta variant, and working with local authorities, we are providing a strengthened package of support in areas where cases of the variant are increasing.

“We know this approach has made a real impact in south London and in Bolton where we have seen it stall rising cases.

“I urge people living these areas to get tested, come forward for your vaccine as soon as you are eligible and make sure to get the all-important second jab – that is how we will beat this virus.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Local authorities will be given additional resources, including military aid, to help with delivering tests and there will be support for supervised in-school testing and surge testing.

The Government will also provide support to maximise vaccine uptake by “developing new capacity” and increasing communications to reach different communities.

Chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency, Dr Jenny Harries, said: “The Delta variant is now the dominant strain across the UK, with cases continuing to rise in some areas.

“People in these areas can help protect their community by remaining cautious, by working from home if possible and remembering to practise ‘hands, face, space and fresh air’.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Getting the vaccine gives a strong level of protection against this variant and I strongly recommend that everyone gets both jabs when the NHS invites you – it will protect you and your loved ones.”

It is thanks to our loyal readers that we can continue to provide the trusted news, analysis and insight that matters to you. For unlimited access to our unrivalled local reporting, you can take out a subscription here and help support the work of our dedicated team of reporters.