Covid-19 cases are still very high in Sandwell despite the current lockdown, the borough’s public health chief warned today.
Public Health Director, Dr Lisa McNally, said: “The new variant has spread rapidly all over the country.
“In Sandwell, we are now seeing it in around three-quarters of all infections.
“The new variant spreads much more easily and is just as deadly as the previous strain of the virus.
“We are warning everyone in Sandwell that this is now a dangerous situation and urging them to stay home as much as possible.
“If not we will see hospitalisations and deaths continue to rise.
“Two areas in Smethwick, Soho & Victoria and St Pauls, have the highest rates, along with Wednesbury North.
“We are also seeing a lot of infections in supermarkets across Sandwell. If you have to go into a supermarket, be very careful to keep your distance from others and wear a face covering.”
Deputy Council Leader, Councillor Maria Crompton, said: “The risks are high right now.
“We are urging everyone to take safety seriously and protect themselves and their loved ones.
“We all need to do everything we can to not bring Covid-19 back into our homes.”
