Around 1,000 people have been tested at the Mobile Testing Unit in Stone over a five day period, and people are being urged to stick to the guidance to help prevent a further spread of infection as it leaves today (Sunday 2nd August).
The final test results are expected early next week. To date, in total 19 people have tested positive who have links to attending the Crown and Anchor Pub either themselves or with people who did.
If people are contacted by the NHS Test and Trace Service because they have been in close contact with one of the positive cases, they are being reminded that they must stay home for 14 days. They should do this even if they have tested negative and have no symptoms.
People who attended the MTU in Stone and tested negative should continue to follow the guidelines, but only need to self-isolate if they develop symptoms.
Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care, said: “The gathering that caused the spike is now a few weeks ago, so we are now looking more at incidents where pub-goers may have passed the virus onto a friend or loved one.
“All those who have been in close contact with the 19 confirmed cases are being contacted and if you are one of these people you must stay home for 14 days, even if you feel well or have tested negative for the virus.
“This outbreak shows how quickly the virus can spread when people don’t social distance, so it is important that everyone in Staffordshire follows the guidance to help prevent a second peak in infections here.”
The guidance is to:
- Wash your hands regularly
- Limit your contact with people not in your household
- Stay at home when you can. If you do need to go out keep your distance – 2m ideally
- Wear face coverings on public transport and in shops
- Stay home for 10 days and book a test if you have symptoms
- Stay home for 14 days if you have been contacted by the NHS Test & Trace Service and told you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive
The county council continues to work with Stafford Borough Council and NHS partners to monitor the situation. Further information about the outbreak and how people can reduce the risk of spreading the virus is available at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/coronavirus
