Fewer positive coronavirus tests in Havering put down to lower availability

Fewer tests were available last week

The number of positive coronavirus tests from people living in Havering has fallen for the first time in five weeks, but the local council is warning that may not mean fewer people have contracted Covid-19.

There were 75 residents in Havering who tested positive in the week ending Friday, 18 September, down from 86 people the week before.

But in its weekly report on virus cases, Havering Council pointed out that local residents have struggled to get tests this week due to make more tests available in areas of England with the highest number of confirmed cases, particularly in the north of England.

Part of the report from Havering Council read: “Prior to this week, the rate of new cases of coronavirus in Havering, London, and England had been increasing rapidly. Last week bucked this trend, as rates in both Havering and London registered a decrease while the national rate continued to increase.

“At the same time, there was widespread concern about demand for tests outstripping the capacity of laboratories to process them in a timely fashion. In response, decisions were taken nationally to redirect a greater proportion of testing capacity to areas in the North West and North East of England with the highest incidence rates that are already subject to additional intervention.

“It is, therefore, possible that the apparent reduction in cases within Havering and London reflects the greater difficulty residents have had getting tested rather than a reduction in the incidence of the disease itself.”

During September, two new testing facilities have opened in Havering.

The two sites, in South Hornchurch and Harold Hill, are walk-through only and local residents are being advised that they are appointment only, so you must book in advance.

People are also being reminded they should only get a test if they are displaying Covid-19 symptoms.

From tomorrow, Thursday, 24 September:

• All pubs, bars and restaurants (except takeaways) must operate a table service only
• All hospitality venues and takeways shops must close at 10pm
• All staff working in shops must wear face coverings
• Staff and customers in indoor hospitality venues must wear a face covering except when seated at a table to eat or drink
• Covid-19 secure guidance will become legal obligations. Businesses can be fined or closed if they breach these rules.

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