Mass testing centre opens for those without symptoms
A NEW mass Covid-19 testing centre has opens its doors in Derbyshire.
The new community testing site is at the imperial Rooms in Matlock.
The site replaces the testing centre in the Members’ Room, at Derbyshire County Council’s County Hall, which has now closed.
The testing centre in imperial Road will be open seven days per week from 7.45am to 7pm each day.
The site is open for people living and working in the local area who are over the age of 11, and don’t have coronavirus symptoms. it is aimed at identifying anyone who may have the virus but may not be aware, so that they can know to isolate.
Those attending community testing centres are asked not to bring bags or other items with them that they don’t consider to be essential. But people are being asked to bring a fully charged smart phone if they have one. Parents or guardians are asked to accompany those aged 11 to 16.
The rapid testing involves lateral flow tests which are selfadministered with clear guidance on how to do so. There is then around a 30 minute wait at a separate facility for a text or email to inform residents of their test results.
if the test is positive, a follow-up polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is carried out by test centre staff to ascertain whether the initial test is correct, for further clarity and assurance.
These tests take around 24 hours to receive a result, during which time the residents in question are told to start self-isolating along with others in their household. Details of their recent contacts and background information are also taken at the time of the second test, and residents are also made aware and directed to support services for financial assistance and health and wellbeing.