People living in those areas are being urged to take a Covid-19 test if they are feeling unwell – with symptoms including a cold, mild flu and headaches.
These were the scenes in Southport at a Smart Covid-19 testing centre this week.
5.
“It doesn’t matter if you don’t have the three classic symptoms of a fever, loss of taste or smell, or a cough – even a headache could be an indication you may have this mutation."
6.
“Understandably, some residents may be concerned but all viruses mutate over time so this should not cause any further alarm. "
7.
"Alongside our partners, please rest assured that we are monitoring the situation closely"
8.
On Tuesday, Public Health England said the Liverpool cases involved the E484K mutation of the virus, but was not a new variant.