The first Staffordshire case of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 has been identified in Staffordshire today (Monday 6th December).

The resident was a contact of a confirmed out-of-area case linked to overseas travel. They have been self-isolating since late November and early identification allowed their small number of contacts to also be traced so they could self-isolate and get tested.

The UK Health Security Agency has been working with Staffordshire County Council on the investigations. As there is no evidence of wider spread in the community, no additional testing is necessary.

Dr Richard Harling, Director for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council said: "With the Omicron variant spreading to more areas of the country, it was inevitable that it would make its way to Staffordshire. Robust contact tracing has taken place following identification of this first case, which has limited the risk of further spread in the community.

"The new Omicron variant is a timely reminder to everyone to remain vigilant and do what we can to reduce the risks. This means getting a PCR test if you have symptoms however mild, wearing a face covering in shops and on public transport, and getting your vaccine and boosters as soon as you can.

"It is important to break the chain of transmission as quickly as possible, and the quickest way of doing this is for individuals who test positive to self-isolate immediately. Even if you are feeling well, I would urge everyone to play their part to keep their community safe."