Asymptomatic Covid testing is continuing in Needham Market

It's after a number of cases of the Indian variant were identified there.

Author: Abi SimpsonPublished 24th May 2021

Over a thousand people in Needham Market have taken part in Covid tests this weekend after four new cases of the Indian variant were identified locally.

A mobile testing unit began operating outside the Mid Suffolk District Council building car park on Saturday 22nd May, with 800 people taking tests in the first day.

On day two 500 people were tested with a second Mobile Testing Unit introduced at the site due to demand.

From Monday 24th May, appointments are no longer officially required for people want to go and get a test, with the mobile site accepting walk-ins.

Suffolk County Council say it's due to numbers stabilising and capacity on site being able to manage drop-ins.

Stuart Keeble, Director of Public Health at Suffolk County Council, said: "We have seen around 1,300 people tested over the weekend, which is a great response from the Needham Market community and I thank everyone who is coming forward. I understand that people are also ordering PCR test kits to do at home, with their children, which is encouraging to hear.

"I'm pleased to say that from Monday you will no longer need to book an appointment and you may simply turn up at the Needham Market mobile testing unit for your PCR test. This will be helpful for people who were unable to book online, or who work in the town during the week.

"If you are local to, or work in Needham Market, please visit the site this week for your PCR test and help us to understand if the virus is spreading. I continue to ask everyone in Suffolk to follow national guidance: hands, face, space, open windows at home if you have visitors, and go for your first or second vaccination appointment when it is offered to you."

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