Posted on Thursday 27th August 2020
More people are being encouraged to take a COVID-19 test following an outbreak linked to the Silverdale Working Men’s Club.
People who visited the Bush Pub and The Vine in Silverdale and the George & Dragon in Newcastle, between August 20 and August 22, are being advised to get tested, even if they don’t have symptoms.
This is in addition to everyone who visited Silverdale Working Men’s Club from August 16 up until it closed on Friday the 21.
There are now seven confirmed cases and a further three suspected cases linked to the working men’s club. People are being advised to try to book appointments online first at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus
If no appointments are available, walk-up testing is available today at the Ryecroft Car Park in Newcastle. There will be around 300 slots. No appointment is necessary, but people should follow social distancing and wear a face covering. The council is also exploring other testing options.
Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director for Health and Care, said:
“As part of our contact tracing three pubs have now been linked to the original confirmed cases at the social club.
“We are asking anyone who visited these pubs between August 20 and August 22 to get tested as soon as they can.
“People should try and book online first, but we know availability can be an issue via the national Government portal, so we have also arranged walk-up testing today in Newcastle only for those people who visited the venues.
“The testing will help provide vital intelligence about how the virus has spread and help in the efforts to contain the spread of infection further.”
The county council continues to work with Newcastle Borough Council and Public Health England to identify any further cases quickly to help contain the virus.
Dr Johnny McMahon, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, said:
“We know this is a very worrying time for everyone in Silverdale and our advice is clear – please, get tested if you have visited any of these venues.
“For everyone else, the most important thing is that we all do everything we can to keep safe and keep businesses open.”
This means:
- Washing your hands regularly with soap and hot water
- Covering your face on public transport and in shops
- Making space, at least 2m, if you do need to go out
- If you are eating or drinking out, leave your contact details
- Stay home for 10 days and book a test if you have symptoms
- Follow the advice of the Test and Trace service if contacted