South African variant of Covid detected in parts of Worcestershire
People living in parts of Worcestershire have been told to take Covid-19 tests after several cases of the South African variant were detected in the county.
A small number of cases have been identified in the WR3 area of Worcestershire, covering the northern part of Worcester and some areas just above it.
Every person aged over 18 living in that postcode has been strongly encouraged to take a test by the NHS.
However, the NHS has also asked people living in some WR9 postcodes to take the tests too.
Residents in WR9 have been asked to visit the council's website in case this applies to them, which can be viewed here.
The WR9 postcode includes Droitwich Spa, Ombersley and Wychbold.
Following the plea from health officials, Worcestershire County Council said hundreds of people had responded to the request.
It comes after cases of the variant - believed to be more infectious - have been detected in parts of Walsall and Birmingham this week, leading to ramped up testing.
Dr Kathryn Cobain, Director for Public Health in Worcestershire said: "The UK has one of the best genomic systems in the world which has allowed us to detect the variant originating in South Africa here in Worcestershire.
"I urge everyone offered a test to take it up to help us to monitor the virus in our communities and to help suppress and control the spread of this variant."
Dr Cobain added: "I want to thank the residents of these areas for answering our call to get tested, and for fully embracing this testing programme.
"We have requested further support which will be available to us shortly, and our teams are working round the clock to ensure the testing available is fully open by early next week."
