People urged to answer when Wrexham’s contact tracers get in touch after reports of calls being ignored

People are being reminded to answer phone-calls from contact tracers and follow the advice they’re given.

It comes after a “small number of people” have ignored calls from Wrexham’s Test, Trace and Protect (TTP) service when they have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.

Wrexham’s TTP service has provided guidance to more than 41,911 people since the pandemic began, and – along with vaccination – continues to play a big part in the fight against coronavirus.

However in recent weeks, a number of people who’ve tested positive have misunderstood changes to isolation rules, and wrongly thought they didn’t have to isolate because they were vaccinated.

However anyone who tests positive from a rapid lateral flow test must isolate straightaway, arrange to get a PCR test and stay isolated unless that PCR test comes back as negative.

If you test positive from a PCR test, you must isolate immediately for the required 10 days – a member of the local TTP team will contact you to ensure you’re given the correct advice and isolation dates.

Anyone who is a ‘contact’ of someone who’s tested positive, may not need to isolate if they have had both vaccinations more than 14 days before contact with the positive case or you’re under 18 and, in both cases, you’re showing no symptoms.

It’s important to answer the phone even if you believe you’re exempt from isolation so you can hear the correct advice and guidance to help to keep you and others safe.

Anthony, who works in the local TTP team, said: “Even though restrictions have been eased and the vaccination programme has been a big success, the pandemic isn’t over.

“If you receive a phone-call from a contact tracer, please answer it and follow the guidance you’re given.

“Some people don’t like to answer their phone or decide to ignore our advice, but that’s a really bad idea and they could be putting other people at risk by spreading the virus.

“The majority of people do the right thing and take on board what we say, but we need everyone to do the same.

“Please don’t ignore us. We’re here to help keep Wrexham safe.”

Councillor Hugh Jones, Wrexham Council’s Lead Member for Public Protection says: “I’m very proud of the role played by our contact tracers here in Wrexham. They do an incredible job and it’s important we all follow their advice if we receive a call.

“We’ve seen so many lives damaged or lost during this pandemic, but by following the right guidance, you can help prevent the spread of Covid-19 and protect your friends, family and community.

“Life might feel more normal at the moment, but the virus hasn’t been beaten and contact-tracing still has a key role to play in containing its spread.”