As of 3 June 2021, one case of a COVID-19 variant of concern, named Delta was recorded in Torbay by Public Health England. The person contracted the variant and self-isolated outside the area. Torbay Council and Public Health England continue to monitor the situation.
Dr Lincoln Sargeant, Director of Public Health for Torbay Council said: “As is the case with all positive cases of COVID-19, close contacts of the person testing positive were identified and also asked to self-isolate. While there is no cause for alarm, it is early days in understanding the potential impact of variants of the COVID-19 virus. Everyone should continue to be vigilant in their COVID-19 safety and get their vaccination when invited.”
All viruses naturally mutate over time and sometimes a virus mutates in a way that it can spread more quickly. In this case, the variant is designated a variant of concern. Early evidence suggests there may be an increased risk of hospitalisation for Delta (VOC-21APR-02) compared to Alpha (VOC-20DEC-02) although more data is needed for us to have more confidence in that finding.
The way to limit the spread of all variants is the same: keep your distance, wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, cover your nose and mouth when inside, keep buildings well ventilated and meet people from other households outside.
You can join us on our social media pages, follow us on Facebook or Twitter and keep up to date with whats going on in South Devon.
Got a news story, blog or press release that you’d like to share or want to advertise with us? Contact us
