Two COVID-19 variants of concern (one first identified in India and the other first identified in South Africa) have been found in parts of Shoreditch and Dalston. 

If you live or work in these parts and are over the age of 16, please get a COVID-19 PCR test even if you do not have any symptoms.

The affected areas are parts of Shoreditch (around Old Street and Great Eastern Street) and parts of Dalston town centre, (around Dalston Lane and Kingsland High Street). Find out if you live in an affected area by clicking here.  

If you need a test, you can go to a COVID test centre without an appointment and ask for a PCR test. Please let the staff know you work or live in an area where a variant of concern has been identified. 

Alternatively you can also order a PCR test to your home or work address. Call 119 (people with hearing or speech difficulties can call 18001 119) or visit here. These tests can be returned at a local testing site or via post in a priority post box. 

I took my test today alongside the Mayor of Hackney, Phil Glanville. It was quick, easy, and important. 

Remember one-in-three people do not show any symptoms when positive for COVID-19. Please take a PCR test if you live or work in these areas. It is vital we all work together to help stop the spread of these new variants in our community.