Sniffer dogs that can detect COVID-19 in humans could be coming to Manchester
Sniffer dog trials for COVID-19 have been taking place at London Paddington train station this week. If successful, the dogs may be used in Manchester by Easter.
Sniffer dogs specially trained to detect COVID-19 in humans could arrive in Manchester by Easter 2021, according to a leading security firm.
Security canines have become common at airport terminals, festivals and large-scale events for their ability to sniff out drugs, bombs and explosives.
But now these amazing animals are being used to detect coronavirus in humans – even in cases where there are no visible symptoms.
Trained by the charity Medical Detection Dogs, the sniffer dogs have been on trial at London Paddington train station this week.
If results are successful, the canines could be in Manchester by Easter.
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It was fantastic to see the @MedDetectDogs in action this morning with Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall
These impressive dogs could be used to identify #coronavirus – helping us further in our fight against this unprecedented virus. pic.twitter.com/fYW8npkB9u
Lilly Moss from Guards.co.uk explained: “The COVID-19 sniffer dogs take less than one second to sniff out the virus, and have been successful in detecting the virus even when no symptoms have been showing.
“Training is currently taking place to enable them to actually sniff out those carrying Covid-19 in busy areas, that’s some skill!”
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Health Secretary Matt Hancock also met the pooches earlier this week.
Hancock tweeted: “It was fantastic to see [the dogs] in action this morning with Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall.
“These impressive dogs could be used to identify coronavirus – helping us further in our fight against this unprecedented virus.”
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The plan is to roll out the programme nationwide and get the dogs to work in busy public spaces – ultimately helping to identify COVID-19 in carriers so they can quarantine.
“We have already had enquiries from some large shopping centre clients about how we could integrate sniffer dogs into the regular patrols,” added Moss.
“They are jumping on every resource they can to keep open and trading.”
Learn more about these amazing animals and how they work online.
News
Manchester United legend Denis Law has died aged 84
Emily Sergeant
Manchester United legend Denis Law has sadly died aged 84, it has been announced.
The Aberdeen-born footballer was a prolific striker throughout his career, scoring 237 goals in 404 appearances for Manchester United – the club he signed for a then-British record transfer fee back 1962, before departing in 1973 – and also playing for Manchester City too for two separate spells during the 1960-61 and 1973-74 seasons.
Law was an integral part of United’s triumphant record-setting 1968 European Cup winning campaign, was the only Scottish player to have won the Ballon d’Or award, in 1964, and also the only man to have two statues dedicated to him at Old Trafford.
But, he previously announced in August 2021 that he had sadly been diagnosed with dementia.
The whole of Manchester, including everyone at City, is mourning with you. Rest in peace, Denis. Our thoughts are with Denis’ family and friends at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/YuwjMXKgxn
A formal statement confirming Law’s passing by his family was announced by Manchester United this evening: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.
“We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently.
“The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation. Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’s family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”
Advice issued as ‘quademic’ of winter bugs continues to take hold in Greater Manchester
Daisy Jackson
People in Greater Manchester are being urged to get any vaccinations they are due done, as a ‘quademic’ of winter bugs runs rife.
Cases of flu, Covid, norovirus and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) are continuing to take hold across the country, and here in Greater Manchester.
The city is seeing more flu cases and hospital admissions than usual for this time of year.
So now health chiefs are urgently reminding eligible people to get their flu jabs and other vaccinations, to protect themselves and others.
Mancs are also being reminded to follow key public health advice, such as frequent hand washing and staying at home when you’re ill.
The flu vaccination drive runs until the end of March and people who are eligible for it can get it from their GP, pharmacy or one of the city’s walk-in clinics, where no appointment is needed.
Dr Cordelle Ofori, Manchester’s Director of Public Health, said: “Our advice is very similar to recommendations made during the Covid pandemic.
“It’s really important to keep washing hands well and regularly; cough or sneeze into tissues or your arm; wipe down key communal surfaces like handles on doors; and where possible, stay at home if you are ill to avoid passing on any infections.
“And, in addition to this we would urge anyone who is also feeling financial or food pressures to ring our free cost of living advice line on 0800 023 2692 or text on 07860 022876.”
Councillor Thomas Robinson, Executive Member for Healthy Manchester and Social Care, at Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester people are well-known for how they look after one another – and passing the flu message on could save lives, as well as unnecessary illness at a time when people face many pressures.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for people to have their vaccination, so please do go to our walk-in clinics if you are 18 and over and eligible for the vaccine. No appointment is needed: it’s quick, easy and done by teams who want to help you.”
The Manc -
29th October 2020 
