“Help contact tracers to avoid a local lockdown” as pub contact tracing details “illegible”

“Help contact tracers to avoid a local lockdown,” was the stark warning by council bosses after punters left wrong or illegible contact details when visiting a Holyhead pub.

According to Anglesey Council’s Chief Executive, compliance could mean the difference between a local lockdown after contact tracers were left frustrated in their efforts to contact drinkers.

The authority has confirmed that a drinker at a Holyhead pub – which has not been named – had tested positive for Covid-19.

But a spokesman says that despite contact tracers being provided with a list of customers who visited that day, many had either left incorrect contact details or their handwriting was illegible.
As a result, council staff have struggled to contact them with vital guidance about self-isolating and seeking a test if symptoms develop.

The council’s Chief Executive, Annwen Morgan, said: “This sort of incident is hugely frustrating and hampering the vital work of the Test Trace and Protect (TTP) team on Anglesey.
“If they cannot get in touch with people who may have been in contact with this positive case, then they cannot pass on important guidance and information.

“We then face the possibility of the virus spreading unchecked, widespread community transmission and more Covid-19 deaths, which would be catastrophic.”
She added: “If you’re going to the pub or restaurant – please make sure you leave the correct contact details and that they are clear for all to understand.

“It’s not difficult and you could ultimately help Anglesey avoid a local lockdown and much more stringent measures; as we’ve seen in a number of other Welsh counties in recent days.”
The quick actions of Anglesey contact tracers was credited in helping to prevent widespread community transmission following an outbreak at Llangefni’s 2 Sisters plant in June.

A total of 221 positive cases were linked to the facility, leading to a fortnight’s closure and all staff asked to self-isolate.

With Anglesey having become one of the first pilot areas for the Welsh Government’s Test, Trace and Protect strategy – since rolled out across Wales – it involves extensive testing and, in the event of a positive result, tracing and contacting the people they’ve been in contact with to contain its further spread.
Ms Morgan added: “We must all take responsibility for our actions and think of the impact they could have on our loved ones and communities.

“We are also urging those contacted by a contract tracer provide correct information about their own contacts. It could really mean the difference between life and death for someone.”
The authority added that the majority of customers who attended the pub have been informed and issued with guidance provided by Public Health Wales.
They have also been advised to self-isolate for 14 days and remain alert for any symptoms of the virus, including:

• new or continuous cough
• a high temperature or
• a loss of or change to sense of smell or taste

Those advised to self-isolated should book a coronavirus test if they develop any of these symptoms, even if they are mild.

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter