Mid and East Antrim Mayor says ‘this remains an extremely concerning time’ as three clusters identified

The plea comes after a Public Health Agency (PHA) analysis identified three Covid-19 clusters with five cases in the local government area.

Since 25 May, when the Northern Ireland contact tracing pilot ended and the full test and trace programme went live, 23 clusters have been identified in total in the province, 11 of which remain open.

According to the PHA, 168 cases of Covid-19 have been associated with these clusters. Nine clusters have had five or more cases associated with them.

The Mayor, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “This remains an extemely concerning time for our citizens and I appeal to everybody within our community to adhere to the Public Health Agency and Executive guidance.

“We all have a vital role to play in battling this pandemic, which has caused so much devastation right around the world.

“It is so important we all continue to socially distance, wash our hands regularly and take every precaution to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

“I also encourage everybody to download the StopCOVID NI app, which alerts users if they have been in close contact with other users who have tested positive for Covid-19.

“Council continues to do all we can to support our community at this time.”

The app is available to download from Apple and Google app. It supports and supplements the Public Health Agency’s existing telephone-based contact tracing operation that already exists to minimise the spread of the virus.

Everyone with symptoms of coronavirus can book a free test. If anyone is concerned that they are experiencing any of the symptoms of coronavirus, they must self-isolate and arrange a test as soon as possible. For further information on the virus, its symptoms and how to book a test, visit www.pha.site/coronavirus

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