Staff and pupils to be tested after Indian Covid variant found at West Bromwich school
Children and staff at a school in West Bromwich will be tested after two positive cases of the Indian variant of Covid-19 were discovered.
Health chiefs have confirmed two individuals from Ryders Green Primary School in Claypit Lane have tested positive for the B.1.617.2 variant, though the cases are not linked to foreign travel.
A total of 120 children in two year groups and approximately 10 staff are set to be tested.
Public Health England (PHE) informed Sandwell Council there had been cases of the new Indian variant of coronavirus linked to the school.
They came back positive several weeks ago with all of the "appropriate" measures being taken, with action now being taken to boost testing.
Dr Lisa McNally, director of public health in Sandwell, said: "In recent months, Sandwell’s local community has achieved an amazing reduction in Covid-19 cases. One of the fastest declines in infection rates in the country has been achieved by following Government guidelines and by testing. We have established an enhanced system of infection surveillance so that we can detect as many of these cases as possible. We also have an extended contact tracing response in place that works to establish routes of transmission when a new variant case is identified.
"However, we cannot be complacent, we all need to do everything we can to stop the spread of Covid-19 and to keep ourselves and others safe. While we do have a small number of positive Indian variant cases in Sandwell, there is no evidence to suggest this variant causes more severe illness. But it appears to be more easily spread than other variants currently circulating in the UK, therefore, we want to find out whether it has spread in our communities.
"Our work with the pupils, families and staff attending Ryders Green School will help us to identify and contain the variant. Please remember that the vaccine is effective against it. So having your vaccination when you are offered it is the best way to keep you and your families safe. Please get your jab as soon as you can and, if you have been offered the vaccination and haven’t had it yet – please do get your appointment booked. It’s also really important that you make sure you take up your second dose as soon as that is offered as well."
Testing is being stepped up being as part of "increased surveillance" for the variant. Parents, guardians, students and staff members have been written to, advising them of the situation and if they need to be tested.
The results of the tests will be reviewed, and further actions will be taken if required. If members of the local community do not have symptoms, there is no action for them to take at this time, chiefs say.
Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy leader of Sandwell Council, added: "People who live, study and work in Sandwell are reminded that coronavirus restrictions remain in place. You should take care when meeting anyone outside your household or support bubble. You should try to avoid travelling in and out of affected areas unless it is essential, for example for work, if you cannot do so from home. This will keep yourself and others safe.
"We want our communities to feel safe and protected, in their homes, in their schools and in their neighbourhoods. Our work with PHE will help us achieve this ambition."
