Surge testing postcode checker: New London postcode added over South Africa variant
SURGE TESTING has taken over in some London postcodes, as health authorities work to identify and isolate new cases of the South Africa Covid variant.
COVID-19 is 'capable of causing resurgence' says Sikora
Surge testing efforts in London are now working to isolate South Africa Covid cases in the capital. The Covid strain is among the UK's noted "Variants of Concern" which threaten to overcome the vaccine-backed immune system and greater transmissibility. Only some postcodes currently need to take part in the growing effort to contain the variant.
Where are London surge testing postcodes?
Health authorities have rolled out surge testing to several sites in the UK capital.
Each area has detected cases of community transmission of the South Africa variant, and one more has now joined the growing list.
Residents of W11, which includes Kensington and is surrounded by Paddington, Notting Hill and Shepherd's Bush, now have to take part in surge testing.
READ MORE: 'Holiday abroad is not a human right!' Matthew Wright rages at JHB
Speaking to The Sun, a Department of Health Spokesperson said everyone aged 16 and over should take part in testing.
They will need to administer a COVID-19 PCR test and return the results to local authorities.
Those who test positive then undergo "enhanced" contact tracing.
Tracers look back over an "extended period" and determine the "route of transmission".
The spokesman added: "By using PCR testing, positive results can be sent for genomic sequencing at specialist laboratories, helping us to identify variant of concern cases and their spread.
"People with symptoms should book a free test online or by phone so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home.
"Those without symptoms should visit the local authority website for more information.
"People in this area should also continue using twice-weekly rapid testing alongside the PCR test as part of surge testing."
DON'T MISS
Holidays in amber countries 'will not be prevented' says expert - INSIGHT
Covid rates in schools drop, campaigners call for end to masks - ANALYSIS
Coronavirus variants of concern scattered across UK - EXPLAINER
W11 residents will join a host of other Londoners undergoing surge tests across several other postcodes.
Other postcodes include:
- HA4 Ruislip in Hillington
- London Borough of Hounslow around the Woodlands area
- Redbridge Council within IG1 and IG6
- Some parts of IG5 and IG7
- Tower Hamlets Council within E1
Several regions outside of London have also had to test for the South Africa variant.
The following metropolitan councils further north of the capital have introduced surge testing:
Birmingham City Council
- Ladywood
- Soho and Jewellery Quarter
- Alum Rock
- Glebe Farm and Tile Cross
- Bordesley and Highgate wards
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
- B66 3
- B66 4
- B67 6