RAPID covid-19 testing is to be rolled out in Warwickshire from tomorrow.
Local testing for people without coronavirus symptoms is set to be rolled out across Warwickshire in the next few weeks, using rapid testing to speed up the process.
A test centre is set to open tomorrow (Tuesday December 8) in Water Orton in North Warwickshire, where fast-turnaround test kits will be used to identify undiagnosed cases and stop people unknowingly spreading the virus.
Additional tests sites are also being planned for Leamington, Rugby and Stratford.
The so-called lateral flow antigen tests are a new kind of technology, which deliver results in around an hour and are used to test a higher number of people without symptoms, so those more likely to spread the virus can isolate.
Director of Public Health at Warwickshire County Council, Dr Shade Agboola said: “We are really pleased to have the new testing facilities available in Warwickshire for asymptomatic testing.
“Although figures are reducing across the county, they are still far higher than we would like them to be. By testing people who don’t have symptoms, we are hoping to catch those who are not aware that they have the virus to ensure that they don’t unwittingly spread it to other people – including friends, loved ones and work colleagues.
“By breaking the chain of transmission and picking up those who may be asymptomatic, we hope that we will reduce the spread of the virus and protect those who are most at risk.
“The tests are really simple to do using a swab from your nose and mouth, and you will be supported throughout the process by those working at the test centre.”
People aged 18 and over without symptoms of covid-19 are invited to book a test by visiting www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/water-orton-covid-community-testing-31912199569.
Anyone with covid symptoms including a high temperature, a new continuous cough or a change to their sense of taste or smell must self-isolate and book a test at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.
