Targeted local enhanced testing and vaccine acceleration to take place in areas in Hillingdon to suppress spread of COVID-19 variants of concern
Extensive tracking of the virus has identified at least two cases of the variant in six areas in Hillingdon (Harlington, West Drayton, Yiewsley, Uxbridge, South Ruislip and Charville).
Some of these can be tracked back to international travel, while some cannot. Those infected have been advised to self-isolate in line with government guidance and their contacts are being identified.
Working in partnership with Public Health England and NHS Test and Trace, between today (Monday 24) and Sunday 6 June every person aged over 16 living and working in targeted areas within the UB3, UB4, UB7, UB8 and UB10 postcodes is being asked to take a PCR COVID-19 test, whether they are showing symptoms or not. Even those who have been vaccinated are being encouraged to take a test.
People with symptoms should book a test in the usual way by visiting www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or calling 119.
Hillingdon Council will be offering PCR testing for people without symptoms living or working in the targeted areas. This testing will be available daily at:
– Beck Theatre, Grange Road, Hayes, UB3 2UE
– Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW
– Harlington Young People’s Centre, Pinkwell Lane, Hayes, UB3 1PB
– Sipson Community Centre, Sipson Way, Sipson, UB7 0DW
People are asked to visit their nearest centre and book an appointment in advance at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/enhanced-testing.
Anyone who is unable to attend a testing site is asked to contact the council’s Community Hub for a home visit to be arranged by calling 020 3949 5786 or visiting www.hillingdon.gov.uk/community-support.
There is currently no evidence to suggest this variant is more serious than others, or that the regulated vaccines would not protect against it.
Cllr Ian Edwards, Leader of Hillingdon Council, said: “While rates of COVID-19 in London are much lower than we saw earlier this year, enhanced testing is taking place as a precautionary measure in these areas, which have seen at least two cases of the variant first discovered in India. This testing will help us to understand the extent of the variant in the community and enable us to support those required to self-isolate.
“By also encouraging people to get vaccinated it will allow us to ensure the maximum number of residents are protected.
“I ask those living and working in the targeted areas to get tested, and vaccinated, if eligible, as soon as possible.
“Once again, I would like to thank residents across the borough for remaining vigilant and following the government guidelines in order to keep everyone safe.”
