Over 1,000 tests have been carried out in a Co Down town following the emergence of probable cases of the Delta Covid-19 variant.
Since Saturday morning, residents of Kilkeel have been undergoing asymptomatic testing after a number of people tested positive for the Delta variant, which was first discovered in India.
Three mobile testing units will remain in the town throughout the week to test anyone over the age of five who has been identified as needing one.
From the 1,000 tests, 15 tested positive and the Public Health Agency has said that nine of these were found to have the Delta variant.
All the positive tests will now be analysed to see whether or not the Delta variant is present.
As part of the operation Kilkeel High School was forced to close and undergo a deep clean.
Dr Bríd Farrell, Assistant Director of Service Development, Safety and Quality at the PHA, said: “The Public Health Agency wants to thank everyone who has come forward to date for testing. This testing is a precautionary measure to identify asymptomatic cases and help prevent community spread, the more people who come forward for testing the better chance we have of slowing the spread of the virus.
“All positive test results are now being assessed for a preliminary indication of whether a variant is present or not and then submitted for whole genome sequencing to confirm the type of variant. This process can take several days to complete.
“This is a timely reminder to everyone throughout Northern Ireland to continue to carry out all public health measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Continue with good hand and respiratory hygiene, keep your distance of two metres from others where possible, wear a face covering where necessary, keep rooms well ventilated, and if you’re offered the vaccine, book your appointment. Stopping the spread of the virus will help save lives.”
Mobile test unit locations for asymptomatic testing of those who have been invited:
· Kilkeel Leisure Centre, Mourne Esplanade, Kilkeel, Newry, BT34 4DB
· ST. Colman’s Church, Massforth, 152 Newry Road, Kilkeel, Newry, BT34 4ET
· Ballymartin GAC car park, Newcastle Road, BT34 4NX
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