Warning to drinkers following rise in C-19

Sunderland pub goers are being urged to act responsibly following a number of COVID-19 cases linked to venues across the city.

Sunderland City Council health bosses have warned those thinking of going out to make sure they follow the guidance around social distancing after a number of COVID-19 cases associated with bars and a sports venue in the city.

Some venues have temporarily closed after staff members or customers tested positive for the virus.

Ttonic on Vine Place is one of the latest venues to announce a closure after two of its staff members contracted coronavirus.

The council has confirmed that venue owners are co-operating with ongoing Public Health investigations.

Ka th Bailey, Public Health Specialist at the council, said :“We have seen a significant rise in the number of cases linked with pubs and bars across the North East so we would urge anyone thinking of going out to make sure they follow the guidance around social distancing and that they don’t under any circumstances leave their home if they have symptoms of COVID or are awaiting the results of a COVID test. We would also ask business owners to act responsibly to help avoid the need the need for more stringent control measures.

“This includes making sure that they have appropriate social distancing, hand washing and cleaning regimes in place and that they are comp lying with test and trace requirements so that customers can be contacted if there is an outbreak.”