I wanted share an important update following the detection of a small number of cases of a mutated form of COVID-19 (the Kent variant) in the city.
Working closely with Public Health England partners, enhanced community testing will now be introduced and is taking place in parts of Hulme, Moss Side, Whalley Range and Fallowfield. It’s important that we act now to help prevent further spread and limit the number of people exposed to the virus, especially this mutated variant.
I know that many of our colleagues live and work in these areas. It’s essential that we support and encourage our residents to get a test, whether they are showing symptoms of coronavirus or not. It is also crucial, that as Council employees, along with our partners, that we also lead the way and get ourselves tested if we live in any of the areas identified.
From tomorrow (Tuesday 9 February), testing will begin, and more than 10,000 tests will be distributed in the community. Additional mobile testing sites will be set up in the area to enable everyone over the age of 16 – who lives, works, or studies in the designated testing area – to get a test as quickly as possible. A team of volunteers will also be knocking on people's doors in the area with home testing kits for anyone who can't get out to a testing site. By testing in this way, we have a better chance of stopping the new variant from spreading.
Actions for staff who live/work in the affected areas of the city:
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If you have had a Lateral Flow Test – this is the one that provides results within an hour – it is important that you get another PCR test
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You should also be tested even if you have had a coronavirus vaccine. While the vaccine will prevent you getting seriously ill, it isn’t clear if it stops the transmission of the virus. That means you could still pass it on.
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If you have tested positive using a PCR test in the last 90 days, you do not need to take another test.
More information about the different types of testing and areas affected will soon be available on the Council website.
It’s important that we all, regardless of where we live, continue to practise the crucial measures that help protect ourselves, family, and friends from Coronavirus. Remember to wash your hands more often and for longer, wear a face covering where required (unless you are exempt), and always maintain a safe social distance from those who are not members of your household or support bubble.
I know that this is a difficult time for everyone, and I am so grateful for your continued support as we continue to take on this challenge together.
If you have any concerns about coronavirus, the identification of the new variant, or the testing in place, speak to your manager in the first instance. There is also support available to anyone struggling on the intranet, including the Employee Assistance Programme.
If you live in an affected area of the city or if you are experiencing symptoms of Coronavirus, please help to keep your community safe by getting tested so we can track the variant and protect you and your loved ones.
So many of our colleagues have stepped up again to work the weekend to make sure this testing can take place, and many more are volunteering to work in the area. I want to thank all of you. This is at a time when many people are volunteering in the vaccination work.
Please – if you are invited to get a vaccine in the usual way, do keep that appointment. Thank you and stay safe.
