with maps linked at bottom of release for Newton and Greets Green & Lyng
Today’s latest Covid-19 data shows a surge in infection rates in the West Bromwich areas of Newton and Greets Green & Lyng.
These worrying statistics – published today (Monday 22 March) at www.sandwell.gov.uk/coviddata – come despite Sandwell showing one of the fastest falls in Covid-19 case rates in the country.
Dr Lisa McNally, Sandwell’s director of public health, said people living and working in these areas, as well as the rest of Sandwell, must be extra cautious.
She said: “Although we have seen our rates in Sandwell falling over recent weeks, we cannot expect to avoid the rising trend of cases across the country as lockdown starts to relax.
“Don’t let your guard down at this critical stage as the vaccination programme gathers pace. Remember: hands, face, space.
“There is absolutely no room for complacency – Covid-19 is a killer virus and we need everyone to be on their guard to protect themselves, their loved ones and their community.”
And Dr McNally reminded people that vaccination remained the way out of the pandemic.
“It’s very pleasing that vaccination uptake in Sandwell is going really well and we need to keep up the momentum – that’s they only way we’re going to get past this.
“So, when you get the chance, get the jab!”
Everyone is urged to continue to follow the government rules and stay at home unless it’s essential to go out. You should self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms – this can save lives.
If you do have to leave home such as to go to work or take children to school, stay at least two metres apart, wear a face covering where required and wash or sanitise hands.
Anyone showing symptoms must self-isolate and book a Covid-19 test at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.
People without symptoms who have to leave home for any reason, for example going to work, can book a rapid Covid-19 test at the West Bromwich Town Hall testing site – visit our testing webpage www.sandwell.gov.uk/testsandwell for details or, for people who cannot book online, call 0121 569 6999. These tests are only for people without symptoms.
Alternatively, if you are an adult without symptoms who lives with children at primary school, secondary school or college (or if you are in a support bubble or childcare bubble with another household with school age children), you can also collect rapid tests from other testing centres to use at home, go to www.sandwell.gov.uk/testsandwell for more information.