Rise in illness ‘to be expected’ following major events like TT

Public Health issues update after residents report increase in Covid cases on Island

Public Health says an increase in illness following major events like TT is to be expected.

It comes after Manx residents reported a rise in Covid transmission on the Island following the busy racing fortnight.

The UK Health Security Agency recently confirmed a new variant of Covid-19 is in circulation there, but Public Health isn’t testing for variants in the Isle of Man, so is unable to confirm whether Covid cases here are from the group of variants known as FLiRT.

Covid remains a notifiable disease in the Isle of Man, so any positive cases detected in the hospital or healthcare settings are reported to Public Health.

As of April 2024, UK data showed an increasing number of infections of FLiRT variants, with the UKHSA stating it was continuing to monitor data in the UK and internationally.

A rise in infections after lots of visitors were on Island with large numbers of people socialising in groups is to be expected, according to Public Health.

The authority says anyone who does feel unwell should stay away from others, particularly those who are considered medically vulnerable.

Members of the public are urged to take measures to prevent the spread of illness, including washing your hands regularly and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze.