Rapid virus testing on offer to workers
A new rapid coronavirus test site for asymptomatic key workers has opened in Bath.
The centre at the Apex Hotel on James Street West opened on Monday and offers tests to key workers and people unable to work from home who do not have any Covid symptoms.
Rapid lateral flow tests (LFTS) are aimed at trying to help prevent the spread of the virus.
Bath and North East Somerset Council’s first rapid Covid test site seeks to see if key workers with no Covid symptoms are unknowingly spreading the virus and to help them know when they need to isolate.
Around one in three people who have coronavirus will experience no symptoms. Rapid lateral flow testing is important in reducing the risk that they pose to others.
The test site provides quick, free lateral flow tests for essential workers and volunteers, critical workers or people unable to work from home who don’t have symptoms. The site is open from 7am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday, and bookings must be made online up to two weeks in advance. Testing is by appointment only - the site is not a walk-in centre. The test process including registration on arrival takes around 15 minutes and results are sent by text or email, usually within one hour. The council will soon be announcing details of two additional rapid Covid-19 test sites, planned to open at the Keynsham Masonic Hall on Monday (March 8) and the Centurion Hotel in Midsomer Norton on Wednesday (March 10).
Cllr Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for adult services and health, said: “Rapid testing is a vital tool in helping to break the chain of transmission of the virus.
“About one in three people who have the virus display no symptoms so they could easily be spreading it to others without knowing.
“The rapid Covid test site will prioritise identifying the virus in people who cannot work from home and who have to be in contact with colleagues and the public in order to provide frontline services to our community.
“It’s important that this sector of workers takes a test weekly to prevent the spread.
“The tests are quick, free and easy to use so please don’t hesitate in booking yourself an appointment.
“Even if test results are negative, there’s a chance that you could still be carrying the virus, so we should all continue to act like we’ve got it to protect our health and that of others.”