Enhanced testing to be carried out in N10 following detection of a case of the Brazilian variant of COVID-19

The Brazilian COVID-19 variant appears to be similar to the current dominant UK variant in terms of transmissibility and risk of severe illness. Research is being done into how well this variant responds to vaccines. There is currently no evidence that existing COVID-19 vaccines will not work against it.

Working in partnership with NHS Test and Trace, every person living in affected postcodes in N10 over the age of 16 is strongly encouraged to take a PCR COVID-19 test this week, even if they are not showing symptoms.

Haringey and Barnet Council are working together to provide testing to these selected postcodes using a mix of door-to-door test kit drops and nearby mobile testing units. Residents will also be able to drop completed tests off at designated collection hubs. Testing will begin this weekend and residents in the affected postcodes can expect to receive leaflets with further instructions in the coming days. A list of affected postcodes and MTU/collection hub locations will also go up on Haringey and Barnet’s websites.

This enhanced testing is only for people who are not experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms; high temperature, continuous cough and a loss or change in smell or taste. Anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19 should not take the home test kits and should instead book a test at one of our other sites https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test  

Everyone in this area should continue to follow current lockdown guidance as before. Those who cannot work from home, should still go to work. Schools in the area should continue as normal.

Cllr Daniel Thomas, The Leader of Barnet Council, said:

“The Brazilian variant of COVID-19 was detected in an N10 postcode in Haringey. There is no evidence at present that they have passed the infection further. However, we are working closely with colleagues in Haringey Council to introduce door-to-door testing and to deploy mobile testing units to encourage residents to get tested so that we can see if it has spread any further.

 “I urge everyone to continue to stick to the rules of social distancing, hand washing and face covering and to keep themselves and others safe from the virus. Getting tested and getting vaccinated will help us all return to normality as soon as possible.”

Cllr Joseph Ejiofor, Leader of Haringey Council, said:

“Following the detection of the Brazilian variant of COVID-19 in  N10, the NHS is deploying enhanced testing to ensure that we detect any further spread.

“We have no reason to think that this variant poses any more threat than the dominant strain of COVID-19, but let’s make no mistake – our battle with COVID-19 is not over and everyone must play their part in stopping further spread. I would urge all in the Muswell Hill area who are asked to come forward for further testing, to do so.  Detecting any spread is the only way that we can safeguard our communities from this new variant.”

When knocking on doors, the team will be wearing council-branded jackets and have appropriate PPE, maintain a safe distance, and have ID stating they are working on behalf of either Haringey or Barnet council.

Mobile Testing Units (MTUs) will be also deployed offering PCR testing for people in affected postcodes who will not have a test kit delivered to their door or who missed their test kits being delivered. Details of MTU locations will be on both councils’ websites.

Testing will, in combination with measures such as hands-face-space and lockdown measures, help to suppress and control the spread of the virus, while enabling a better understanding of the mutation. 

Positive tests will be sequenced to identify any further spread of the mutation, enabling a better understanding of the mutation, and identifying if there are any more cases of this particular strand of the virus in the area. If someone tests positive, they must self-isolate immediately and pass on details on their contacts to NHS Test and Trace.

For more information about enhanced testing in N10, visit https://www.haringey.gov.uk/ or www.barnet.gov.uk/surgetesting

Professor Kevin Fenton, London regional director for Public Health England said:

“All viruses mutate over time and since the start of the pandemic over 4,000 mutations have been identified in the UK. Most are not a concern for scientists, but we know that some mutations result in virus variants that we are keen to track more carefully.

“In London we’re working with NHS Test and Trace and local authority public health teams on tailored intervention measures for variants. These include more testing, additional genomic sequencing and enhanced contact tracing, enabling us to quickly identify any further cases and help prevent any onward spread.

“It’s key that we adapt and respond to the changing nature of COVID-19 in a way that works for our communities, our city and for Londoners. Taking this targeted approach is essential as we look to take the first cautious steps out of lockdown.

“Around 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 don’t have any symptoms at all, and testing is quick and free. If you are an eligible resident of N10 please take advantage of the opportunity to take a test and keep London safe.”

At a glance:

• People with symptoms should book a test in the usual way. People without symptoms should visit their Local Authority website for more information.
• People should continue to follow the lockdown rules and remember ‘hands, face, space’.
• We know that mutations form a part of the virus cycle and we are well prepared to sequence new mutations and assess what action may need to be taken.
• If a person tests positive, has any symptoms, or are contact traced following contact with someone who tests positive, they should self-isolate immediately.
• If a Haringey resident tests positive and has to self-isolate, Haringey is Here to Help. Claimants can claim up to £500 if you they are unable to work due to having to self-isolate. Full details are available online: Haringey.gov.uk/isolation-support-payment
• Residents can also call Haringey’s Connected Communities team on: 020 8489 4431 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm). There is a range of ways that residents can get help and support. For further information visit Haringey.gov.uk
• If someone in Barnet has to self-isolate and needs financial support, they can apply for two grants under the national payment support scheme and the Barnet enhanced discretionary self-isolation support payment.