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Mayor urges renewed vigilance as Delta variant emerges in Causeway Coast and Glens

Mayor urges renewed vigilance as Delta variant emerges in Causeway Coast and Glens

Tue, June 15, 2021

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has issued a timely reminder to residents as rates of the Delta variant increase.

Numbers of the latest Covid-19 strain are on the rise, and Councillor Richard Holmes is urging people to take steps to protect each other and the wider community.

Commenting on the need for renewed vigilance, the Mayor said: “Our message is simple-if you're eligible book a vaccination, if you’re displaying symptoms get tested and when you’re going about your daily lives continue to follow the hands, face, space advice. Wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering and keep your distance from others.

“With the easing of restrictions, it can be all too easy to lose sight of the public health advice but we simply cannot allow this to happen.

“The Delta variant is present in Causeway Coast and Glens, and we must do all we can to counter its heightened transmissibility.

“Collectively we can take action to protect ourselves and our loved ones and we must all pledge to be a part of this process.

“If you develop a new, continuous cough, a high temperature or a change in your smell and taste senses you must get tested immediately. Similarly, if you are a close contact of a positive case you are required to get a test, and this will help to address the spread.

“Mobile test units are currently deployed in Ballycastle, Ballymoney, Coleraine, Portrush and Portstewart while a walk-in test centre is located at Ulster University in Coleraine offering increased choice and convenience to get tested as quickly as possible.

“Vaccine uptake will also make a difference – if you are eligible book your appointment without delay and make the time to get protected.

“We have asked so much of our communities over the past 15 months and once again we are appealing to everyone to play their part at this crucial stage of the pandemic.”

Mobile testing units are open from 9am – 3pm are currently located in the borough at:

Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre, Ballymoney.

Coleraine Leisure Centre.

Quay Road Playing Fields, Ballycastle.

Dunluce Centre Car Park, Portrush.

The Pits (Opposite Rinagree Coastal Park), Portrush Road, Portstewart.

The walk-through centre is located at Ulster University (Car Park 4), Cromore Road, Coleraine and is open from 8am – 2pm.

Click here to find out more information, including how to book your vaccination or a test.