Testing unit arrives

A new mobile Covid-19 testing unit has arrived in Rutherglen.

The resource, enabling people to quickly be tested for coronavirus, is based at Fernhill community centre and is open every day from 9.30am to 5.30pm.

Dr Jackie Hyland, NHS Lanarkshire Consultant in Health Protection, said:“Covid-19 can be spread by people who don’t have symptoms or the symptoms are so mild people may not recognise that they have the infection.

“For the benefit of yourself and your community, I would encourage as many people as possible to get a test. The test results will help to detect the virus and limit its spread.”

Tests can be booked in advance at https://www. gov.uk/get-coronavirustest and scrolling down to the‘start now’button, or by phoning 0800 028 2816. Anyone booking a test online should select the‘taking part in community testing’ option.

Staff will be on hand to provide advice about the test and result process. The swab test takes less than a minute, is relatively pain-free, and results should be received within 24 to 48 hours.

If you test positive you will be contacted by NHS Scotland tracers. They will let you know for how long you and your household should self-isolate and help you identify who you have been in contact with, protecting others from further transmission. They will also provide you with details of how to get additional support during self-isolation.

Your close contacts should also self-isolate. They will be called by contact tracers and advised to get a test. They should continue to isolate even if their test is negative.

Asymptomatic testing, that is testing for those who do not have symptoms of Covid-19, continues to be available at Larkhall Leisure Centre from 9.30am to 5.30pm, every day. There is no need to book.

Dr Hyland added: “Wherever you get a test, if your result is negative, it is important that you continue to follow the guidance to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.”