Posted on Saturday 18th July 2020
Residents in Burton are being urged to book a test immediately if they have any Coronavirus symptoms – as a Mobile Testing Centre is set up at the Pirelli Stadium next week.
The temporary unit will be based there and people with symptoms can book a test in advance, either online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by telephoning 119. Walk-in appointments are not permitted.
Although there is currently no serious concern or plans for imminent lockdown measures, Staffordshire County Council is calling on people, to follow the guidance and get tested to help prevent the spread of further infection.
Between July 4 and July 15 there were almost 40 cases reported in the town, with the majority in the areas of Anglesey and Shobnall as well as some in Horninglow. These include two families, where 14 people in total have tested positive in the households.
Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care, said: “It is important that if people do have any of the symptoms of; a high temperature, a new persistent cough or a loss of taste or smell, that they stay home and book a test immediately.
“Having the right intelligence about who has the virus and who they have been in close contact is not only key to our efforts to successfully manage any outbreaks, but will also help protect you, your family and the community where you live.
“It is easy to book a test and with a mobile unit in town, I would encourage anyone with symptoms to get online or phone now to book a test.
“Alternative ways of getting tested for residents of the affected areas who do not have access to cars are also being put in place.”
The county council is working closely with East Staffordshire Borough Council, the NHS and the town’s communities to spread the message to follow national guidance carefully.
The guidance is to:
- Wash your hands regularly
- Limit your contact with people not in your household
- Stay at home when you can. If you do need to go out keep your distance – 2m ideally
- Wear face coverings on public transport now and in shops from July 24
- Self-isolate for seven days and book a test if you have symptoms
- Self-isolate for 14 days if you have been contacted by the NHS Test & Trace Service and told you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive
Alan White, Staffordshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, added: “We are working incredibly hard with communities to encourage them to follow the guidance and I would like to thank Burton’s community and faith leaders in particular for their continued support.
“Now is the time for residents and businesses to work together to follow the guidance and do everything they can to reduce the risk of more cases in the town.”
You can find out more and watch a video of Dr Richard Harling explaining the current situation here