By Mass testing for secondary school children in worst affected areas
Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, has announced that mass testing will be rolled out to secondary school children in the worst-affected areas of London, Kent and Essex.
Speaking at a Downing Street press briefing, the health secretary said the government was “particularly concerned” about coronavirus cases in the affected areas, which were rapidly rising.
Matt Hancock stated that those aged 11 to 18 were “by far” the fastest rise in coronavirus infection rates in these areas.
He stated the age group in these areas should be tested regardless of symptoms.
He added:
“We need to do everything to stop the spread in school-age children now”.
Continuing on to say that more information would be given today and that:
“The government must not wait until the next review of the tiered restrictions on the 16th of December, but must take targeted action immediately”.
It comes after Londoners were urged to stick by the rules this week amid fears the tier 2 capital may be put under tier 3 restrictions, following a rise in Covid cases.
Mr Hancock confidently said he felt it was “right” to keep schools open “for education and for public health”.
Adding:
“We are therefore surging mobile testing units and will be working with schools and local authorities to encourage these children and their families to get tested over the coming days”.
Meanwhile, all secondary schools and further education colleges in Wales will move classes online from Monday, Welsh education minister Kirsty Williams has announced.
