Covid-19 test centre opens in Ross-on-Wye following rise in local cases
rossonline
Posted On October 28, 2020
A new mobile Covid-19 testing centre for Herefordshire is now at the Larruperz Centre, Grammar School Close in Ross-on-Wye.
Following an increase in local cases, the centre opens today (Wednesday October 28th) and will mean residents in the south of the county needing a test don’t have to travel to Hereford or outside the county to get it.
Herefordshire Council’s Director of Public Health Karen Wright said: “This is a critical time in this pandemic and, although the number of cases in Herefordshire has been low compared to other parts of the country, the figures here are now rising significantly. One of the areas seeing an increase is Ross-on-Wye and people in the Ross area can get an appointment for a test near to home. We will also be inviting selected residents individually for asymptomatic testing, to help us understand the wider community transmission.
“The unit is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm each day for a week in the first instance and is being provided for Herefordshire Council by the regional NHS test and trace team.
“We hope to be able to offer mobile testing facilities in the other market towns in Herefordshire in the coming weeks to make it more convenient for residents to get a test.
“Nobody in Herefordshire can afford to relax. It is imperative people get tested if they have symptoms and also that they self-isolate immediately.”
Anyone experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 – a high temperature, persistent cough, loss or change in sense of taste or smell – should immediately book a test by ringing NHS 119 or visiting https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test. They should self-isolate (not leave their home) while waiting for their test and until they have the result. Anyone who cannot get to a test centre can order a home test kit.
Herefordshire Council also issued a stark warning today saying that the rise in cases is of concern. They said: “We will need to go into restrictions if we get to 100 cases per 100k. Please keep following the basics – wash your hands, cover your face, and make space. To keep up to date with the latest case numbers and safety advice visit: orlo.uk/8Iw9Z “
