Our case rate here in Newcastle is now at 348/100,000 (figures to 7th Jan) and has shown early signs of improving, as the graph demonstrates. However the local NHS is still under huge pressure and we are still at risk from the new variant as it spreads.
*All* residents who *need* to be out and about in Staffordshire during the lockdown are also being urged to have regular Covid-19 tests, even if they don’t have symptoms.
HOTSPOT: SILVERDALE
Additionally, Silverdale has been identified as a local hotspot and residents are advised to take extra care to stop the spread of the virus. They are also advised to get a test even if they don’t have symptoms.
These community rapid flow tests - for those without symptoms - are available at Bradwell Lodge and can be booked here: https://staffordshire.zipporah.co.uk/TrackAndTrace/
If there is no availability, you can book a traditional test at one of the national sites at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and choose the option “my council has asked me to book a test”.
Anyone with symptoms should only book a national test. Anyone who is self-isolating as a close contact should only book a test if they develop symptoms and this should be through the national system only.
Most of the hotspot areas in the County are now in the south as the new variant spreads. The only area the County Council has advised as a hotspot in the Borough this week is Silverdale.
