As you may be aware, a new variant of COVID-19 called the Delta variant (originating in India) has been identified in several areas of the UK, including Reading and Wokingham.
From 7 June, additional testing is being offered in the following areas:
- RG1 3, RG1 5, RG1 6 and RG1 7 postcodes in Reading
- The Bulmershe and Whitegates, Evendons, Norreys, and Wescott areas of Wokingham.
This surge testing is being deployed following the identification of a small number of confirmed cases of the Delta variant, first identified in India. All the confirmed cases have been contacted and instructed to self-isolate and their contacts have been identified.
What should I do if I live in one of the affected areas?
- All students who live or work in these areas are strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not, if possible, before coming into college.
- Enhanced contact tracing will be used for individuals testing positive. This is where contact tracers look back over an extended period to determine the route of transmission.
- By using PCR testing, positive results are sent to specialist laboratories, helping to identify COVID-19 cases with a variant of concern and then prevent their spread.
- If you have any symptoms you should remain at home and book a free test. You can then go to a testing site or have a kit sent to your home. Walk-in test slots are available at some test centres across Reading and Wokingham. If you have no symptoms, you should visit your local authority’s website for more information (Reading or Wokingham).
- Students should continue to do a lateral flow test twice a week, alongside the PCR test as part of surge testing. Tests are available from faculties for students.
