COVID-19: Surge tests rolled out to more areas of Birmingham after South African variant case discovered | UK News

Surge tests are being rolled out in parts of Birmingham after a case of the South African variant is discovered.

The Alum Rock and Glebe Farm & Tile Cross areas have been targeted for testing and anyone in the affected areas is encouraged to come forward for a test.

The person who tested positive for the variant has isolated themselves and their contacts have been identified, according to the Department of Health.

Last week, surge testing was introduced in the city’s Ladywood, Jewelery Quarter and Soho neighborhood after a single case of the variant was discovered.

Health officials said initial investigations suggest the new case is “unrelated to a previously identified case in the Birmingham and Sandwell areas”.

Anyone aged 16 or over from the new areas who is contacted is “strongly encouraged” to have a PCR test, whether or not they have symptoms.

Those who test positive for a variant will benefit from improved contact tracing, looking back over an extended period of time to help understand how the virus was transmitted.

People are always advised to undergo rapid tests twice a week in addition to the PCR test as part of the surge tests.

Speaking when the first case was identified last week, Birmingham Public Health Director Dr Justin Varney said: “This new variant from South Africa presents a new risk, so it is essential that All adults in affected areas are embracing this PCR testing offering to help.We quickly bring the spread under control and identify any other local cases.

“There is financial and practical support for those who test positive and need to self-isolate, and their contacts, and it is vital that we all play our part in mastering this new challenge.”