Tynemouth MP Alan Campbell has recently received an update from the North Tyneside Director of Public Health, Wendy Burke, as follows:

The number of cases in North Tyneside has remained steady in recent months, thanks to the efforts of the public and with high vaccination take-up in the borough.  However, in the last week, there has been a sharp increase – from around 350 cases per 100,000 of the population to 500 per 100,000.

In response, North Tyneside Director of Public Health is asking the public to do all they can to minimise the spread.

Wendy Burke said: “We expected to see a rise in cases as we enjoy more freedoms, however we  have seen a real spike in the last week particularly among younger age groups. “I’d please ask everyone to practice good respiratory hygiene, access regular asymptomatic testing, wear a mask in crowded spaces and wash hands regularly.  “Most importantly, the Covid-19 vaccination is the best defence against the virus. While it might not
stop you from contracting coronavirus, it significantly lessens the risk of severe illness and the risk of hospital admission. “It is great news that the COVID-19 vaccine booster programme has started in the borough and also the school-based programme for all 12-15 year olds. I would urge everyone eligible to get vaccinated.

“I know how difficult the last 19 months have been and I must thank our residents for continuing to help us control and live with the virus.”

Residents should take a PCR test and self-isolate if they experience symptoms, including a continuous cough, high temperate and loss of taste and/or smell. There are two test sites in North Tyneside – at The Parks Sports Centre, North Shields, and Coronation Street car park, Wallsend.

Two mobile test units are also available at weekends in the borough. Tests can be booked online at www.gov.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
All residents without symptoms are encouraged to take twice-weekly lateral flow tests, which can be accessed from over 40 pharmacies and through the post. Find out more at www.northtyneside.gov.uk

For vaccine information, please visit www.nhs.uk