CHILDREN are being encouraged to keep getting regular tests for Covid after a recent rise in infection rates within Southend schools.

Southend's director of public health, Krishna Ramkhelawon, has sent a letter to parents urging them to get their children tested twice a week and ideally the night before a school day.

It comes as Southend, like the rest of England, has seen an increase in positive Covid tests for the Delta variant.

It's hoped even more regular testing will help to prveent children from spreading the virus to others in school.

In the letter, Mr Ramkhelawon said: “As I am sure you have seen in the press and on social media, there has been an increase in the number of positive Covid results for the Delta variant in the north of England, as well as increases in Essex and Southend over the past few weeks.

"Whilst overall infection rates remain low across the Borough currently, since the May/June half term there has been a rise in the number of infections within our schools and it does seem to be the younger generations who are becoming infected with this variant.

"We only have five weeks until the end of the academic year. If we can just keep this going, it will help keep everyone safe until the summer holidays, when I will no doubt be encouraging you to continue testing."

Testing kits are available from pharmacies and some libraries across the borough or you can order them through the government website.

Anyone who tests positive is being urged to follow up with a PCR test to help scientists identify which variant it is.

Laurie Burton, cabinet member for children and learning said: "We are kindly requesting that parents continue to support us in our efforts to prevent the spread of infection by ensuring their children test regularly and follow instructions to self-isolate where needed.”