The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Waste water tests spark virus fears
Anew Covid-19 mobile testing site has opened in Cupar after wastewater testing sparked concerns about the virus in the area.
Based at Fluthers car park, the site will provide testing for members of the public with Covid-19 symptoms, but those without symptoms are also being encouraged to get tested.
By providing testing for the local population as a whole – whether symptomatic or not – the hope is that cases can be identified quickly and the spread of the virus reduced.
Provided by National Services Scotland and staffed by the Scottish Ambulance Service, the mobile testing unit will visit the area for a twoweek period.
Josie Murray, NHS Fife consultant in public health and health protection clinical lead, explained that wastewater sampling – which is being used alongside testing to help understand the prevalence and location of the virus – has shown raised levels within the area in recent weeks.
“We know that prevalence in wastewater may predict positive cases within the community,” she added.
“Whilst the unit will provide testing for those with symptoms, we’re also encouraging those who do not currently have symptoms to get tested at the unit.
“One in three people with Covid-19 don’t display symptoms and by asking the local community as a whole to get tested, we can get a clearer picture of cases within the area.
“Through the identification of positive cases and having people self-isolate if they do have the virus, we can reduce the spread.”
National statistics suggest Cupar’s neighbourhoods have comparatively low case numbers, with fewer than two recorded in each of Cupar Central, Cupar West and Springfield and Cupar East over a seven-day period.
That compares to the likes of Cardenden, where nine cases were recorded in the same period.
The mobile unit will operate from 9.30am to 6pm, seven days a week.
Members of the public will be asked to take a throat and nose swab. The test will be analysed in a laboratory with results available within a day or so.
People who test positive will be asked to self-isolate.
Testing is by appointment. To book, visit nhsinform.scot or call 0800 028 2816.
When booking, indicate that you are taking part in a pilot project and select “Taking part in community testing”.
Carol Potter, chief executive of NHS Fife, said: “Through early detection, we can reduce transmission within local areas, helping to protect our families, friends and communities, particularly those who are most vulnerable.”