Test and Trace reaches over 80 per cent of close contacts

The Department of Health and Social Care has claimed that NHS Test and Trace has successfully reached over 80 per cent of close contacts since its launch.

Statistics from the eleventh week of operation, covering 6–12 August, show that the service has reached more than 272,000 people, helping to stop hundreds of thousands of people at risk of unknowingly passing the virus on.

Where communication details have been provided, the service has reached 88.6 per cent of close contacts since launch or 81 per cent of close contacts overall.

Almost four million people have been tested during the 11 week period, with the vast majority of tests conducted at in-person test sites. Since mid-June the number of people getting newly tested has increased by 52 per cent with over 431,000 people newly tested in the latest week of statistics.

Dedicated teams of contact tracers from NHS Test and Trace are working with local authorities across England to reach contacts in communities who have not responded to the service, especially where there is high prevalence of the virus. New areas have signed up to the scheme, with teams now in place in: Leicester; Blackburn with Darwen; Luton; Sandwell; Rochdale; Peterborough; and Oldham.

Eight new local walk-through testing sites have also recently been opened, including in Newcastle upon Tyne, Trafford in Greater Manchester, Bristol and Southend-on-Sea. It means there are now over 130 testing sites, including 38 walk-throughs, as well as 236 mobile units.

Dido Harding, Interim Executive Chair of the new National Institute for Health Protection, said: “NHS Test and Trace is consistently reaching tens of thousands of people each week who are at risk of unknowingly spreading the virus. The system is there for us all. Testing and contact tracing will help us control this virus, but only with your support.

“I am hugely grateful to everyone who’s stepped up so far and especially to everyone working tirelessly in communities around the country to ensure that no one is left behind. It’s really easy and free to get a test – you can walk in, drive through, or order one to your home. Please remember – if you experience symptoms, however mild, you must get tested. If you are contacted by NHS Test and Trace, follow the advice you receive.”