Coronavirus: Why testing matters – even after your vaccinations

Shropshire residents are reminded of the need to continue to follow Government guidance, and have routine COVID-19 tests, even after they have been vaccinated.

With the vaccination programme continuing at pace, Shropshire Council’s director of public health has called up on everyone living and or working in the county to continue to adhere to guidelines and restrictions, and to continue routine testing even if they have had their vaccine, in order to keep themselves and others safe from the virus.

Vaccines reduce the chances of people suffering from severe illness if they get COVID-19. However, some people may still get COVID-19 despite having a vaccine, but the severity of any infection should be much less.

Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council’s director of public health, said:

“Over 187,000 people have now received their vaccinations locally, but we cannot get complacent or let our guard down. People who have had a vaccine may still carry coronavirus and unintentionally pass it on to friends, family or work colleagues, so it is crucial that we continue to follow all measures to control the spread of the virus.

“We must all continue to follow the latest advice and guidance about regular handwashing, wearing a face covering, maintaining social distancing, and only going out if essential.

“People should still self-isolate if they have been in contact with anyone with COVID-19 symptoms or have tested positive, even if they have had a vaccine themselves. It is also vital that people continue to take the opportunity to get regular tests.

“Routine testing means we can monitor the spread of the disease and spot any new virus variants before they become more prevalent in our communities. This is particularly important in workplaces, but matters in the wider community too. If people aren’t getting tested, we cannot identify new outbreaks or patterns, so we must all play our part.”

Rapid testing for people without symptoms is available without appointment at the following locations:

Bridgnorth Community Centre, Severn Street, Low Town, Bridgnorth, WV15 6BB

Raven House, 129 Cheshire Street, Market Drayton, TF9 3AH

The Victoria Centre, Victoria Road, Oswestry SY11 2HT

Opening hours at the walk-in rapid testing sites are from 8am-5pm daily. No prior booking is required.

Rapid testing by appointment is also available at the following locations:

Council-run sites (booking required)

The Lantern, Meadow Farm Drive, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, SY1 4NG

Halo, Craven Arms Community Centre, Newington Way, Craven Arms, SY7 9PS

Stanier Hall, Thomas Adams Sixth Form, Noble Street, Wem, SY4 5DT

Tests can be booked online at  http://www.shropshire.gov.uk/lfdpublictesting/

Pharmacies (booking required)

Several Shropshire pharmacies are now offering rapid testing for people who cannot work from home. Tests can be booked online using  https://www.1centralhealth.co.uk/shropshirelft

People with symptoms of COVID-19, which include a fever, a new continuous cough or a change to the sense of taste or smell, are reminded they must immediately self-isolate and book a PCR test by visiting GOV.UK or calling 119.

  Step Up and help us stop the spread of coronavirus:

• Stay At Home
• Work from home, if you can
• 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 (food shops, workplaces) where social distancing may be more difficult, and where you may come close to people who are not part of your household or bubble.
• 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 10 days if they or any members of the household receive a positive test.

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 or visit our website at www.shropshire.gov.uk/coronavirus.