Although the SVI Office has now closed for Christmas we thought it essential that this News Release from Sandwell MBC was forwarded to you all to ensure your safety and to keep you informed of the current situation. Please note that if you need help relating to adult social care while SVI are closed, please call Sandwell Enquiries on 0121 569 2266. If your call is urgent you can call the adult social care emergency duty officer on 0121 569 2355 out of hours.

This is not the news you wish to hear just before Christmas but to ensure your safety please be careful and stay safe. Please read on for important information and please pass on to friends and family:

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News Release

21 December 2020

Stark warning from Sandwell over new variant of coronavirus

Sandwell’s director for public health Dr Lisa McNally today issued this stark warning: “A new variant of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 has now spread to most areas of the country.

“It is expected to be prevalent in our area very soon.

“The problem is the speed of transmission – we can expect a dramatic rise in cases over the next few weeks which inevitably means more pressure on already strained hospital critical care units and an increase in deaths.

“Our data suggests that shops, and especially supermarkets, are likely places for infection.”

Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy leader, Sandwell Council added: “We want everyone to stay safe this Christmas so please do not take any unnecessary risks.

“COVID-19 can be a fatal illness and it is vital we all do what we can to stop the spread and in particular protect our most vulnerable residents.”

Anyone with symptoms must get tested straight away and ensure they self-isolate for the full 10 days.
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Circulated by SVI for and on behalf of Sandwell MBC

Please try to have as good a Christmas as possible but also make sure you stay safe.

Compliments of the Season and let us hope the New Year will eventually be a more happier one.

Kind regards

SVI Team