Covid-19: Concern in Telford over workplace transmission

The rate of infection in Telford is above the regional and national average

People in Telford who are going into work are being asked to get tested twice a week because of concerns over workplace infections.

Telford and Wrekin Council highlighted manufacturing and food production and distribution as areas of concern.

It said workplace infections were keeping Covid rates "stubbornly high" in the borough.

They fell by just 2% in the week up to 21 February to reach 185.7 new cases of Covid-19 per 100,000 people.

That compares with an average 13% drop across England in the same period.

The council has also asked people to stop car-sharing and said it was working with employers to make workplaces safe.

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"When a positive case has been identified by the national Test and Trace system we will work with the business in question to ensure that all contacts have been identified," Councillor Andy Burford, the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said.

"We will also provide them with advice and support on making sure all Covid secure measures are in place and, in some cases, we will pay a site visit."

Telford and Wrekin Council said workplace cases were largely centred on manufacturing and food production firms

The data for the seven days up to 21 February showed eight out of 10 new infections in the Telford and Wrekin area were in the working age population, with 334 new cases in that same period.

Liz Noakes, Director for Public Health in Telford, called on anyone who could not work from home to get tested at least twice a week, regardless of symptoms, and said it would offer them and their families "peace of mind".

"The end of lockdown is in sight but we need to stay the course so that restrictions can be lifted as planned and on time," Mr Burford added.

The latest figures on vaccinations show Telford has the best record in England for the percentage of residents over the age of 65 to have received a jab.

More than 97% of that age group have so far had at least one dose.

What do I need to know about the coronavirus?

• HOLIDAYS: When can I go on holiday in the UK or travel abroad?

• SUPPORT BUBBLES: What are they and who can be in yours?

• SCHOOLS: When will schools reopen?

• TESTING: What tests are available?

• SYMPTOMS: What are they and how do I protect myself?