Coronavirus: Get tested if you have coronavirus symptoms

People with symptoms of coronavirus – no matter how mild – are being encouraged to book a COVID-19 test as soon as possible.

Current mobile testing sites in Shropshire:-

• London Road Car Park, Shrewsbury, SY2 6PG, until Wednesday 4 November
• Beatrice Street (old Morrisons Car Park), Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 1QW, until Tuesday 27 October

Testing is available for anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, such as a high temperature, a new cough, or a change in sense of taste or smell, or thinks they may have the virus. All appointments must be pre-booked.

Testing will usually be offered at home or at a drive-through test centre and is most effective within one to three days of symptoms developing,

Tests can be booked for yourself or any member of your household. All tests must be booked in advance. Residents can register by calling NHS Test and Trace on 119 or by clicking here.

Once you are registered you will receive confirmation of the time you must attend a testing site if that option has been requested: you will only be allowed in with this information.

If you have symptoms, then you should follow the latest Government guidance and remain self-isolating.

If you cannot attend a testing site, there are also tests that can be ordered and done at home. Please contact NHS Test and Trace on 119 or by clicking here.

Strict infection control measures will be in place to ensure the testing units are operated with the highest levels of public health safeguards.

Shropshire is at critical point in the battle against coronavirus. On Monday 19 October, Public Health England put Shropshire’s case rate at 90.4 per 100,000.

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and climate change, said:

“Effective testing for COVID-19 is one of the first lines of defence in reducing infections. Testing has taken place in locations across Shropshire and we have seen a good take up from residents.

“I would strongly urge anyone who has symptoms, no matter how mild they may be, to immediately self-isolate and arrange to be tested.

“New appointments are released throughout the day and we have mobile sites being rotated across Shropshire. People with symptoms also need to stay at home and isolate for 10 days to protect themselves, their families and their community from any potential spread.

“I would also encourage everyone with a compatible smartphone to download the new NHS COVID-19 app, which supports the NHS’ wider Test and Trace programme.”

Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace and will be asked to share information about people that they have been in close contact with recently.

Further information

Step Up and help us stop the spread of coronavirus:

• Work from home if you can
• Limit contact with other people
• Keep your distance from people not in your household bubble (2 metres apart where possible)
• Stick to a maximum group of 6 people when meeting socially – indoors or outdoors
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Do not leave home if you or anyone in your household has symptoms
• Wear a face covering in indoor settings where social distancing may be difficult, and where you will meet people you do not normally meet.
• Anyone who has any symptoms should book a test and not leave home for at least 10 days. Those living in households should self-isolate for 14 days if they or any members of the household receive a positive test.
• You can book a test by calling 119 or click here

Download ‘Step Up Shropshire’ posters here.

For local advice and support during the pandemic (especially if you are self-isolating), call Shropshire Council’s COVID-19 Helpline on 0345 678 9028 (lines open on the weekend on Saturday from 9am-4pm and Sunday 9am-12pm) or visit our website at www.shropshire.gov.uk/coronavirus.