Surge testing will begin in South Harrow tomorrow after a third case of the South African Covid-19 variant was found in the area.

Harrow Council says that the case found in South Harrow is unrelated to travel or the two recent cases found in North Harrow and Wealdstone.

In fact, it is believed that the person who contracted the variant followed all public health guidance and social distancing and has since made a full recovery.

But as a precaution surge testing will begin in some HA2 areas in South Harrow, Roxbourne and Roxeth wards, with home testing kits offered to all over-16s and nearby businesses.

However Harrow Council says not everyone in these areas will need testing, and only those that do will be contacted.

Anyone offered a home testing kit is advised to take the test, even if they do not feel Covid-19 symptoms.

The home testing kit delivery team will:

  • be carrying 'Number 8 Events Ltd' ID badges
  • be wearing a blue vest reading "test centre"
  • be wearing appropriate PPE and maintain a safe distance from you
  • explain how to take the test and register it

The home testing kit delivery team will not:

  • ask you for any personal information
  • ask for you to pay for anything
  • enter your property

Although the borough’s Covid-19 rates have dropped significantly over recent weeks, testing for the variant will assure there is not a new wave of infections as lockdown restrictions ease.

Anyone not asked to take part in surge testing can – if not showing symptoms- book a rapid test at www.harrow.gov.uk/test.

Those with Covid symptoms should book a test at gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.

Meanwhile, the surge testing that launched in North Harrow and Wealdstone on March 15 has now finished.

Carole Furlong, Harrow’s Director of Public Health, said, “I know people will be concerned about this third case of the South African variant – I am pleased to hear they made a full recovery and want to thank them for staying at home during the self-isolation period, helping to stop the spread”.

“If you are asked to take part in the testing, please do get tested to help protect your loved ones and the wider community - by identifying any other cases we can help break the chain of infection”.

She added: “This variant is still quite new - while there’s no evidence that it’s more serious than others, or that vaccines are less effective against it, our understanding of it is still quite limited.

“Thank you for all you are continuing to do to keep Harrow safe - please continue to follow the lockdown rules, wash your hands regularly, keep your distance from others and wear a face covering.”

Further information about this work and the support available to residents can be found at harrow.gov.uk/surgetest.