Wirral, as part of the Liverpool City Region, is among the areas to receive additional support to tackle a rapid rise in cases of the Delta variant of COVID-19.

The enhanced support is now in place across the entire City Region and much of the Northwest and will see increased efforts to encourage residents to get the COVID-19 vaccine to help protect them from the virus.

Director of Public Health for Wirral, Julie Webster said:

"The last time our numbers were this high we were in a lockdown and cases of COVID-19 are continuing to rise at a worrying rate across Wirral. The Government has allocated enhanced support to help tackle the spread of the virus and this will give us more flexibility to fight this new wave of infections locally.

"So how can you play your part? It is really important that people get a symptom-free test twice a week, particularly if you are attending school or a workplace, because you can spread the virus without knowing. You should continue to get tested regularly even if you have had the vaccine, because while you have good protection, you could be spreading it to others who haven't yet had their jab.

"The Delta variant is now the dominant variant and highly transmissible but we know the vaccine offers the best possible protection against becoming seriously ill. I would urge everyone who is eligible to get one as soon as possible, even if you have already had COVID-19.

"The biggest increase in infections is among the 20-39 age group and it is vital that you book your jab to make sure you are protecting yourself and your loved ones. It is also essential that you come back for your second jab. You wouldn't go out half dressed and the approach to the vaccine is the same. You need two doses for maximum protection.

"I cannot emphasise enough the importance of continuing to follow the guidance on hands, face, space and fresh air. Just because we can doesn't mean we should and meeting people outside in the open air is still the best option to stay safe this summer. If we do this, along with testing and vaccinations, then we can slow the spread of the virus in our community and protect the NHS.

"We must not drop our guard against COVID-19, it has not gone away. We must keep doing the right things to stop the spread and Keep Wirral Well."

Anyone who is eligible but hasn't had their first jab yet should arrange their vaccination as soon as possible either by using the national booking service.

If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, self-isolate immediately and order a free PCR test here.

Testing for those with symptoms is still available at Heswall Library, 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm. Book a test by clicking or tapping here and scrolling down.

To get a symptom-free COVID-19 test or request a testing kit, explore locations and dates here.