Following latest advice from Public Health England, this statement has been revised to include information that the Delta COVID-19 variant may increase the risk of hospitalisation.

COVID-19 variant case recorded in Torbay not a cause for alarm but remain vigilant

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.