New coronavirus testing facility open in Littlehampton
Those with symptoms can get free checks from Monday (December 7th)
A walk-through Coronavirus testing facility is to open in Littlehampton on Monday (December 7th).
The site, at the St Martin's car park, is being provided as part of the Government’s UK-wide drive to improve the accessibility of coronavirus testing for communities.
Anyone with coronavirus symptoms, however mild, will be able to get a free swab test which takes less than a minute to complete, with results available as early as the following day.
Additional support is being made available for vulnerable groups and those with disabilities.
The site is easily accessible without a car. Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout (including travelling to and from the testing centre).
Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through testing will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely.
Anyone testing positive for the virus in England will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them track their contacts. This will help people to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.
Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, advising them to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus. They will be advised to also book at test if they develop symptoms.
Health Minister Lord Bethell said:
“Testing is proving an effective way to contain the virus so we are scaling testing capacity and walk-through centres to make it even easier for everyone to get a free coronavirus test.
“Our NHS Test and Trace service will contact you if you test positive or if you have been in close contact with someone who has the virus. I urge anyone with symptoms to book a test today, and anyone contacted by NHS Test and Trace to follow their advice to protect those around them from the virus.”
Cllr Dr James Walsh, Leader of Arun District Council said:
“The Council are working closely with all partners involved in the delivery and running of the National Testing Site in Littlehampton. Being able to ensure that members of the public who are displaying symptoms of Coronavirus can be tested quickly and locally can only help in the fight against the spread of the virus.”
Tests should be booked or ordered as soon as symptoms begin via theNHS websiteor by calling 119. Tests are by appointment only.