Posted on Tuesday 6th April 2021
As the government’s testing programme is set to extend nationwide the council is urging all residents to get tested twice a week and make it a regular part of a weekly routine.
After successful pilots, including Staffordshire, everyone in England is to be given access to two rapid coronavirus tests from Friday,
The County Council’s Covid Test & Collect Service opened up to include all Staffordshire residents last week. Following this and other successful trials the government has announced the extended testing programme will be rolled out across the whole country.
Previously, packs were restricted to anyone who lived with children or staff at nurseries, schools and colleges.
From Friday lateral flow kits, which can provide results in around 30 minutes, will be available for free at testing sites, pharmacies and through the post.
Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care said:
“The Prime Minister has confirmed the next step of the roadmap will take place from Monday, which is welcome news. This means many businesses and leisure facilities will be able to re-open which we are all looking forward to.
“With these new relaxed regulations and additional activities permitted it is even more important for us all to get tested regularly even if you have no symptoms.
“We are urging everybody to get tested twice a week and make it part of a regular weekly routine. This way we can identify cases quickly and isolate them as soon as possible, preventing larger outbreaks and a spike in Covid cases which could de-rail our path along the roadmap and out of the pandemic.
“Don’t give up on our good work now - continue to follow hands, face, space, fresh air, and make sure to take up the option to get tested twice a week which best suits you.”
Those preferring a supervised test can still book a test at our community testing centres and touring pop-ups. Full details of all the testing options and how to book can be found at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/testing.
People with symptoms should self-isolate and book a test at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or ring 119.