Posted on Friday 19th March 2021
The number of rapid Covid tests carried out at Staffordshire’s network of Community Testing Centres has now topped more than 100,000.
With one in three people showing no symptoms, the testing identifies people who may unknowingly be spreading the virus. So far, testing has identified nearly 1000 people infected with the virus and allowed them and their contacts to isolate.
Dr Johnny McMahon, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, said:
“We know that one in three people who have the virus show no symptoms so regular testing is key to continuing to prevent the spread of infection.
“While the roll out of the vaccine has brought much hope and optimism it will be several months before all adults are vaccinated and the full benefits are known.
“That’s why regular testing must go hand in hand with the vaccination programme if we are to make the easing of lockdown work and continue to protect the most at risk, keep our schools open and see all our employers back open for business.
“So a huge thank you to all those who have been tested and a plea to everyone who is out and about to make testing part of their regular routine.”
People without symptoms can get tested at:
- Work – if their employer runs a testing scheme
- At a Community Testing Centre – these are bookable seven days a week at every district and borough
- Community Collect – open to any household, childcare bubble or support bubble with a child or staff member at nursery, school or college. People can pick up packs of seven home tests
- Home test delivery – if you are eligible for Community Collect, but are unable to travel to a collection point
Full details of all the options and testing or collection sites can be found at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/coronavirus
People with symptoms should book a test via www.nhs.uk/coronavirus