SURGE tests are being rolled out in the city amid a spike in Covid-19 cases among young people.
Anyone between the ages of 18 and 30 living in Brighton and Hove is encouraged to take a PCR test for coronavirus whether or not they have symptoms.
Infections fell from 498 cases in the week of June 24 to 1,119 cases in the week of July 1, according to government data.
The city’s director of public health, Alistar Hill, said he was “really concerned about how quickly cases are escalating”.
He said: “We now have one of the highest rates in the Southeast.
“With almost all lockdown restrictions lifted over the next two weeks, we must act now before the situation escalates.
“Cases are increasing fastest among young people who have not yet had the chance to receive both vaccines.
“To help stop the spread, we have made the decision to ask all 18-29 year olds to take proactive steps and have a PCR test over the next few weeks.”
Mr Hill added that although vaccines work “very well against the virus”, many young people are still not fully immunized.
He said: “We have set up testing sites in the city center to make testing easier for those who work or socialize in bars and restaurants in the city.
“One in three people with Covid have no symptoms, so they won’t think they need to be tested. Even if you feel good, you could still spread the virus to everyone you have come in contact with. Getting tested will help break the chain of transmission and keep people safe.
“There are still vulnerable people who could become very sick if they contract Covid. ”
Brighton and Hove City Council Chief Phélim Mac Cafferty has said he recognizes people are fed up with Covid and want to get back to normal but it is a “critical time for the city”.
“Over the past few weeks, a number of sites in the city have had to close due to Covid-19. Most due to the number of staff who have to self-isolate after coming into contact with people who did not realize they had the virus.
“Making PCR tests available in the city center means you can take a test while you’re in town or meeting other people. ”
The walk-in sites will be open every day from 12 noon:
• Statue of Peace, Hove seafront, BN3 2WN Usually open from noon to 7 p.m. daily
• Jubilee Square, Jubilee Street, Brighton BN1 1GE Usually open from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily
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Source: www.theargus.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-07-09 10:12:30
