Residents urged to get tested after South African Covid variant is found in the Black Country
An MP has urged residents to get a Covid test after the South African strain of coronavirus was found in part of the Black Country.
A testing drive has been launched in Sandwell after a person who lives on the border of Oldbury and Tipton was found to have the strain.
West Bromwich West MP Shaun Bailey said: "The discovery of the South African variant on the border of Oldbury and Tipton is, of course, concerning for residents and the wider community.
“I would therefore strongly encourage everyone within specific streets in the wider DY4 7, DY4 8 and B69 2 postcode areas, to get a test, whether you are experiencing symptoms or not.”
He added: "I would also remind everyone that a stay at home order is still in place until March 29 and that people should, therefore, only leave their homes if it is for an essential reason.
"I understand that this discovery is upsetting, but cases in Sandwell have been continuously dropping in recent weeks, and the vaccination programme continues to be rolled out."
