Kentish Express Ashford & District
Twice a week test call regardless of jab status
‘We still need to monitor cases and isolate anyone who is carrying the virus without knowing it’
People socialising outdoors should be tested for coronavirus twice a week, according to Kent’s director of public health.
Andrew Scott-Clark said as restrictions ease, people should take advantage of symptom free testing sites regardless of whether or not they have been vaccinated.
He said: “I strongly advise that everyone who leaves home for work, and now to socialise outdoors, should take a test twice a week.
“We still need to monitor cases closely and isolate anyone who is carrying the virus without knowing it.
“I also implore everyone to stick to the guidelines and remember ‘Hands, Face, Space and Fresh Air’ at all times.
“I want to thank everyone who has and continues to be tested in Kent, but now is not the time to be complacent or careless.
“We need to keep going to ensure we can reduce coronavirus infection rates if we are to see restrictions eased further by April 12.”
More than half a million symptom free Covid-19 tests have now been carried out at sites across the county.
Out of those, 2,686 positive cases were identified that would otherwise gone undetected.
As a result, these people have been able to act quickly to self-isolate and prevent passing the virus on to others.
KCC says the testing provision will remain across the county until at least the end of June.
Mr Scott-Clark added: “To reach the milestone of testing half a million people in the county is a testament to the amazing staff who run the testing centres, but also to the people of Kent who have so enthusiastically taken part in this testing programme.
“Covid-19 has not gone away and remains a very real threat.
“Now more than ever, as we are finally allowed to meet family and friends outside and start to enjoy more freedom from lockdown restrictions, twiceweekly symptom free testing continues to be a vital tool in keeping infection rates low.”
■ To book a symptom-free test at one of Kent’s 21 sites, visit tinyurl.com/symptomfreetests