Rapid Covid testsin Callander
Callander is set to host the latest round of region-wide asymptomatic Covid testing over this weekend.
The rapid testing kicked off yesterday at the McLaren Leisure Centre in the town and will remain there until Saturday.
It is available for any Stirling locals who do not currently have any coronavirus symptoms and will be available today and tomorrow between 12pm and 6pm, with no need to book in advance.
Test results will be available in around 45 minutes and can be received at home rather than at the test site with anyone testing positive asked to undertake a further PCR test.
It follows a similar round of asymptomatic testing launched in Cowie last week and is part of a national effort to drive down local case rates and identify positive cases more quickly to halt the spread of the virus.
Dr Graham Foster, NHS Forth Valley’s director of public health, said: “We are still seeing new cases of coronavirus cases in Forth Valley and we know that many people with Covid-19 don’t experience any of the common symptoms.
“This new testing facility will make it easier and quicker for people who don’t have any symptoms of Covid-19, to get tested to ensure they are not able to spread the virus to friends, family or colleagues without realising it.
“Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 or who is living with someone who has symptoms, even very mild ones, should continue to book a test via NHS Inform and should not attend the Callander testing centre as this is only for people who do not have any symptoms.”
Stirling Council chief executive Carol Beattie added: “These tests are completely voluntary and are there for anyone who may want one. We are hoping that residents will recognise the benefits of getting involved in local testing efforts to help reduce the spread of the virus in their communities. “Many people who have Covid-19 don’t have any of the usual symptoms or indeed any symptoms at all but are potentially passing the virus on to loved ones, friends and others in the community.
“By getting tested you can find out if you are positive, and take immediate action.”