Covid-19 testing site to be set up in Melton after spike in cases

We reported yesterday (Monday) that the number of people testing positive for coronavirus in the borough had gone up from four to 16 in the week up to July 27.

That put Melton in the top 10 for fastest growing infection rates for the whole country, with new cases being ranked per 100,000 population, although it represented relatively small numbers of cases compared to hotspots such as Leicester and Blackburn.

The government has decided to clamp down on pockets of infection increases around the country and hopes the new testing site will help to contain it from spreading further.

MP Mrs Kearns told the Melton Times this morning: “Melton has had an increase in infections and it falls into that category where we need to keen an eye on it.

“People who have symptoms should immediately self-isolate and take a test at the new testing centre to ensure we don’t get more cases locally and the situation will be monitored for the next two weeks.”

Some residents have voiced conerns on social media that the Melton borough might soon be following Leicester and surrounding districts in having tight lockdown restrictions imposed.

But Mrs Kearns commented: “Whilst we were not included in the measures (in the Leicester area), I know residents have been worried by recent media reporting which states that Melton is experiencing an increase in cases of COVID-19 and reports that we may be on the verge of having to lock down.

“This is absolutely not the case.

“In Melton we have seen an increase in cases, with around 16 last week, and as a result preventative action is being taken to make sure we identify and isolate the virus.

“From Thursday there will be a new testing site established in Melton, and it is absolutely vital that anyone with symptoms should immediately self-isolate and book a test.”

She also urged all residents to follow other government guidance to wear a face mask inside shops, wash your hands regularly and practice social distancing.