Asymptomatic coronavirus tests extended in York
The tests are for people who aren't showing symptoms of the virus.
York council is expanding asymptomatic coronavirus tests in the city to people to who support those who are most at risk of the virus.
The tests have been open to retail, leisure and transport workers since Monday - with hundreds of bookings made so far.
Those who work with, live with or support those most at risk from Coronavirus are now being invited to book their free tests
The Council is jointly working with York St John University to use Foss Sports Hall on the university’s Lord Mayor’s Walk Campus for the symptom free testing. The facility was used for their successful testing programme before students returned home for the holiday period.
Councillor Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Social Care and Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board said: “It was fantastic to visit the site today which is a valuable addition to our fight against Coronavirus. These tests, and self-isolating when needed, saves lives and getting tested is free, quick and easy to do.
“We are very grateful that York St John University have allowed us to use this facility and to those who have booked a test so far, it is making a difference.
“It has been a hard year for everyone and the identification of symptom-free cases of coronavirus will help us to keep the people we love safe and the places we love open.“
Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health said: “Thank you to everyone who has been tested so far.
“The early identification of cases is crucial. We know if a test comes back positive it presents challenges, but stopping the spread of the virus helps everyone in the city. The people of York have been fantastic so far and I would urge those who are eligible to take part and get tested regularly. Anyone who has symptoms should continue to book their test online or call 119 and self-isolate.
“We are pleased to now extend this offer to those who come into contact with those most at risk from Coronavirus. This will help those who are doing so much support residents in our communities and keep them and those most at risk safe.”