South African variant identified in Sandwell
Further surge testing is taking place with all residents in the DY4 postcode being told to get checked
A case of the South African variant of Covid-19 has been identified in Sandwell.
The Department of Health and Social Care said part of the DY4 postcode, including the Burnt Tree area, would have additional testing made available to control and suppress the potential spread'' of the variant.
Genomic sequencing is also being deployed to a targeted area, which takes in parts of both Tipton and Oldbury.
The DHSC said any positive cases will be sequenced for genomic data to help increase understanding of Covid-19 variants within the areas.
People living within the targeted area are strongly encouraged to take a Covid-19 test when offered, whether they are showing symptoms or not.
Sandwell Council said robust contact tracing had identified the patient's contacts, who have been asked to self-isolate.
A mobile testing unit is being set up at the PureGym car park in Dudley Port, offering its service to people without symptoms.
The council is urging people aged 16 and over without symptoms within specific streets in the Oldbury/Tipton border area to take a PCR Covid-19 swab test.
The mobile testing unit will open from 10am-3pm on Wednesday for walk-in tests and booked drive-in tests.
Deputy council leader Maria Crompton said: "I know this news will cause concern.
"Our priority is to keep our communities and especially our most vulnerable residents safe.
"We are making additional, targeted testing easily available in these specific areas, so we can monitor and control this new variant.
"We are strongly encouraging people to get tested even if they don't have symptoms.''
Dr Lisa McNally, Sandwell's director of public health, added: The more cases of the variant we can find, the better chance we have of suppressing it.
"If you are asked to be tested please, please do take up the offer, it's quick easy and painless and you'll be saving lives by doing so.
"Please help to keep your community safe by getting tested so we can protect you and your loved ones.''