An enhanced test and trace system will be employed in Harlow to slow the spread of coronavirus after the town experienced a massive spike in cases.

In recent weeks the rate of infection in Harlow has surged above 200 cases per 100,000 people, displaying one of the fastest rates of growth in new cases in England.

Essex County Council has promised to roll out an “enhanced” test and trace system in the town towards the end of next week.

When questioned over what the enhanced system would mean, a spokesperson for the council said: “This means a service which quickly follows up people who have been in close contact with someone who tests positive for coronavirus, and advises those contacts to self-isolate to prevent further spread of the virus.”

The rate of infection in Harlow now stands at 218.2, having fallen slightly from 222.8 the week before.

Between November 23 – 30 (the latest available accurate data), the were 190 new infections reported in the town. Down from 194 the week prior.

Subject to sufficient tests and resources being available, the council also intends to roll out a mobile testing site next week.

A council spokesperson added: “The new lateral flow tests will be used to try and break chains of virus transmission by people who don’t have symptoms but may be infectious.

“People who have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus are a good target group to try and achieve this, which is why we will be targeting the tests at this group and in areas where there are relatively high number of known positive cases.”

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