Staff member at Hays Travel in Sunderland tests positive for coronavirus

The case which involves one worker, who is based at the firm’s Keel Square offices, prompted council health bosses to launch the Test and Trace protocols to ensure anyone at risk was contacted as a matter of urgency.

No further cases have been confirmed.

A spokesperson for Sunderland City Council said: “We have been made aware of one confirmed case of Covid-19 associated with the premises.

"This case is currently self-isolating and no other workplace contacts have been identified as a result of Test and Trace.

"There are no reports of any other confirmed or suspected cases with the premises which we understand has strict social distancing and other COVID-secure measures in place.”

A spokesperson for the company – which has been awarded a contract via Serco to work as part of the Test and Trace programme – said: “Someone who works at Hays Travel head office has tested positive for Covid-19.

"They are self-isolating.

“We have informed Public Health England and they have confirmed we have taken all necessary steps.”

Gillian Gibson, director of Public Health for Sunderland said the news should act as a reminder to people that they need to be vigilant to stop the spread of the illness.

She said: “Coronavirus is still very much with us and it is very important to remain vigilant to contain the virus and prevent ongoing spread to others.

“If you have symptoms of Coronavirus, you must self-isolate immediately, get tested and identify your contacts to NHS Test and Trace.

"I would also remind people in Sunderland to continue to follow the public health advice on social distancing, ideally keeping two metres apart from others, hand hygiene and wearing face coverings, to stop the spread of the virus.”

Anyone who develops symptoms of coronavirus and their household contacts will also be required to self-isolate.

Those who have been identified as a close contact of a confirmed case, you will need to complete your 14-day isolation period even if you test negative.

For more information visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-and-treatment/when-to-self-isolate-and-what-to-do/.

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