Rapid testing planned for key workers

PlaNS are being finalised to provide the county’s key workers with rapid community testing for Covid-19.

leicestershire County Council hopes to have one rapid test centre open in each district over the next few weeks, with the current test centre in Wigston Fields now available to key workers.

one in three people who have coronavirus show no symptoms, and rapid lateral flow testing, led by the council’s public health team, can help to quickly identify individuals and stop the spread of infection.

Rapid testing is only for those who don’t have symptoms and aren’t already isolating. it will be open to key workers and anyone else unable to work from home.

County council leader Nick Rushton said: “Key workers have had a vital role to play in supporting us all during the pandemic. Rapid testing for these workers will help to protect them, their colleagues and customers.

“We are also looking for testing assistants to help staff the sites as we open them and i would urge anyone who can spare the time to help us with this programme, to please find out more about the role.”

The lateral flow tests are selfadministered at a test site – and you can leave the site straight after you have taken your swab. Results will be sent out by text or email by the end of that day. Sites will open six days a week.

anyone unable to work from home and who is eligible, will be able to book a test at www. leicestershire.gov.uk/covidtest