Rapid tests now available to book

People without Covid-19 symptoms can now book a rapid test at a number of pharmacies in Wyre Forest.

A number of pharmacies are offering Lateral Flow Testing, but people must book an appointment in advance. 

This tests are available to adults and children aged 12 year and over, who live or work in Worcestershire and who do not have any symptoms of Covid-19.  Tests can be booked online using the booking website  www.1centralhealth.co.uk/worcslft  

Rapid turnaround tests are supplied by NHS Test and Trace and will help identify people who are positive for Covid-19 but have no symptoms. Around one in three people who are infected with Covid-19 have no symptoms. Broadening testing to include those with no symptoms will mean finding positive cases more quickly, and help to break the chains of transmission.

The tests are taken using nose and throat swabs and the results are much faster than the standard test which goes to a lab. There are no costs but anyone getting a test will need to follow social distancing and wear a face covering.

If you have symptoms, you should not book a rapid test. Anyone with one or more of these symptoms – a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste, should continue to book a test at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus  or by calling 119.

Dr Kathryn Cobain, Director for Public Health in Worcestershire said: “This is another important way for us to support our residents to stay healthy and well.

We know that people are concerned about unwittingly spreading the virus. These tests offer a way for people to have that peace of mind, and if they do test positive, act quickly to self-isolate and reduce the risk to others.

 “Around one in three people have the virus without symptoms so could be spreading the virus without knowing it. Wider testing to identify positive cases from those showing no symptoms will mean quicker detection, and ultimately less spread of virus.”

The local pharmacies offering pre-booked appointments are: