COVID-19 Testing Expanded Wider After Silverdale Outbreak

Thirteen cases of COVID-19 have now been linked to an outbreak at the Silverdale Working Men’s Club. All of the cases and their close contacts are isolating.

Some of the cases visited seven other venues whilst infectious and people who attended any of the premises on the dates below are being advised to get tested.

• Silverdale Working Men’s Club ­­– August 16 to 21
• The Bush pub – 20 August to 22 August
• The Vine pub – 20 August to 22 August
• The George & Dragon pub – 20 August to 22 August
• Newcastle (King Street) Working Men’s Club – 22 August
• The Kiln  – 22 August
• The Roebuck pub – 23 August
• The Bilash restaurant – 24 August

Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care, said:

“Through our ongoing contact tracing we have identified that cases linked to this outbreak have visited a number of venues whilst infectious.

“It is important that everyone who attended these venues on the specified dates gets a test. This will enable us to identify any further tests and isolate them and their contacts to prevent the spread of the virus.

“More than 300 people have already been tested and we have arranged extra testing capacity over the Bank Holiday weekend.”

Testing is available at:

• A walk-in Local Testing Centre at the Ryecroft Car Park, Newcastle, ST5 2AA from 8am to 8pm tomorrow
• A drive-in Mobile Testing Unit at the former recreation centre in Knutton, ST5 6BX from 10:30am to 3:30pm from Friday 28 August to Monday 31 August. Walk-through is also available
• People should book tests online if possible through the national portal at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus  or by phoning 119. Alternatively they can drop in without an appointment at the above, but should wear face coverings and bring ID.

The county council continues to work with Newcastle Borough Council and Public Health England to contain the virus.

Dr Johnny McMahon, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, said:

“It is important that people are tested to help identify any further cases so that we can prevent the spread of the virus.

“The venues do appear to have been following national guidance and the outbreak could have been a lot worse otherwise.”

“These venues and other business in Silverdale and the wider area can remain open as long as measures are in place to maintain strict hygiene and social distancing in line with national guidance.

“The best way for everyone to stay safe remains to follow national advice and not let our guard down.”

This means:

• Washing your hands regularly with soap and hot water
• Covering your face on public transport and in shops
• Making space, at least 2m, if you do need to go out
• If you are eating or drinking out, leave your contact details
• Stay home for 10 days and book a test if you have symptoms
• Follow the advice of the Test and Trace service if contacted