Linwood backs testing

More than 100 people turned out to Linwood’s Covid-19 testing centre on the first day of opening.

The centre , which is for people without symptoms of the virus, opened in the town’s Tweedie Hall on Wednesday.

And a report, shared with Renfrewshire councillors, shows that 111 people dropped in for a test on the first day.

The report states:“Although numbers of positive cases are at a relatively low level, community testing remains a key priority for the Scottish Government and is seen to be essential in keeping numbers low.”

The temporary testing site - which is being run as a drop-in centre - will remain open until 5pm on Tuesday.

It is being targeted at anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Linwood and is only for those who are not displaying any symptoms.

The centre will use lateral flow tests – which are quick tests that will be processed on site and see results returned via text message within 45 minutes.

The testing site will be open from 11am to 3.30pm today and tomorrow and from 9am to 5pm Monday and Tuesday.

Anyone who tests positive will be required to self-isolate – along with the rest of their household - for ten days.

A second more reliable PCR covid test will also be carried out.

People who have Covid-19 symptoms - such as a new persistent cough, high temperature and loss of taste or smell - should not attend the Linwood centre but book a test at a NHS-run site instead.