Isolated cases of Indian variant found in Worcestershire

Cases of the Indian variant have been detected in Worcestershire.

In a statement, Dr Kathryn Cobain, Director of Public Health for Worcestershire said: “Our Public Health team are continuing to work with PHE to ensure an appropriate response is taken for every variant of concern.

"As with many other Local Authorities, we are aware of isolated cases in Worcestershire of the variant first identified in India.

"It is right that we should be cautious about any new variants of the virus, and I appreciate that people may be anxious in the current climate.  

"Viruses often evolve and this is not unusual.

"Our priority locally is to ensure that all cases of COVID-19 self-isolate which will prevent onward transmission of the virus. 

"It is important to say that there is currently no evidence that the new variants cause more severe illness.

"The best way to stop transmission and to keep yourself safe remains following the Hand, Face, Space guidance and taking the appropriate tests regularly.”