Testing lands at Heathrow
DRIVE-THROUGH COVID-19 TEST CENTRE OPENS UP AT AIRPORT CAR PARK
WEST Londoners will be able to get a coronavirus test at a drive-through testing centre being opened at Heathrow Airport.
With passenger numbers down 97 per cent compared to last year, the airport has offered up one of its car parks for use as a testing centre, the Department of Health and Social Care announced on Friday, May 22.
The latest centre will add to those already opened nearby at Twickenham Stadium and at Ikea in Wembley.
Anyone over the age of five can now be tested for coronavirus if they have a new, continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss or change in their normal sense of smell or taste, with appointments booked via the NHS website, Berkshire Live reported.
Key workers can book tests for themselves via the gov.uk website.
John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow CEO, said: “This testing facility will play a pivotal role in curbing the spread of this virus, by helping to identify whether people are infected. As the technology improves, antigen and antibody testing could mean that people without the disease can travel freely between countries.
“Currently each country is developing its own approach, and the UK government could take a lead in developing a Common International Standard for health in aviation, that will keep people safe and get the economy off the ground.”
The testing centre is being operated in partnership with Sodexo, and will offer assisted and self-administered tests.
Those tested will receive their results within a few days.