West Tyrone MLA tests positive for Covid

SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has tested positive for Covid-19.

On Monday, Mr McCrossan was made aware that he had been in contact with someone who was demonstrating symptoms of Covid-19.

On Tuesday September 15, Mr McCrossan received a negative test result but on the same day, a member of his household tested positive for the virus.

Mr McCrossan has since been in isolation in line with the public health guidance.

Late on Wednesday, Mr McCrossan began experiencing symptoms of the virus including a headache, fever and a new cough.

He then booked another test for Thursday and received the positive result on Friday morning.

Speaking about the diagnosis, Daniel McCrossan MLA said, “On Friday, I received a notification of a positive test result for Covid-19.

“This has been a distressing time but my first priority is to keep those around me safe.

“This virus spreads so easily, the member of my household and others who were tested had no symptoms at first.

“It’s a frightening reality.

“I immediately reported the result on the Stop Covid app and have taken the decision to close my Assembly office to the public as a precaution against transmission of the virus and to ensure the safety of local people.

“I immediately booked a test and informed my colleagues that I would not be able to attend plenary sessions in the Assembly this week as a result.”

Mr McCrossan is now urging people not to be complacent as West Tyrone is currently seeing an increase in the number of positive cases.

Mr McCrossan continued, “There are hundreds of people across our communities who have contracted this virus.

“In West Tyrone this week we are seeing an increase in infection rates.

“This virus is still very much with us and I would urge everyone to please follow the public health guidelines, to maintain social distancing, continuing washing hands and to get tested if you show any symptoms at all.

“This is the only way we can keep infection rates low and protect the vulnerable and elderly.

“The guidance is in place to prevent transmission and to keep people safe.

“While in isolation, I’ll continue to work for the people of West Tyrone to the best of my ability and to spread awareness about the impact of this virus,” concluded Mr McCrossan.