South African variant of the coronavirus – update for Providers

There have been several recent news reports about the new South African variant of the coronavirus. 

As a result of this new strain, the government has announced additional testing, which is being made available in locations where the new variant has been found.

The new variant has been detected in the CR4 postcode but only in the Pollards Hill area in Merton. The national enhanced testing operation is only therefore being delivered in the Pollards Hill area.

If you have staff that live in the Pollards Hill area in Merton, please ensure you remind them of the need to engage in the enhanced testing operation that is being put in place to prevent the further spread of the virus. This will support existing extensive testing already in place.