Think you may have Covid-19? Mobile testing unit will be in Northampton tomorrow, Sunday, and Monday

A mobile testing unit (MTU) will be operating in Northampton, Northamptonshire, in support of the COVID-19 National Testing Programme tomorrow, Sunday, and Monday.

Testing is by appointment only. Appointments can be made at www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-testedMobile units are only in a location for a few days. They have an integrated one-way system that allows people with an appointment to attend for either walk-in or drive-through testing.

The eligibility criteria for tests have been extended to include anyone with coronavirus symptoms (new, continuous cough; high temperature; loss of or change in sense of smell or taste).

Essential workers will be given a priority. More guidance can be found at www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid19-getting-tested#who-can-be-testedFor tests to be effective you must be symptomatic.

More on the symptoms of COVID-19 can be found at www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid19/check-if-you-have-coronavirus-symptomsCouncillor Jonathan Nunn, Northampton Borough Council Leader, said: “This COVID-19 Mobile Testing Unit will be offering more Northampton people with coronavirus symptoms the chance to access testing closer to where they live.

“Testing is key in our battle against coronavirus, therefore I would urge anyone who is concerned that they have any of the coronavirus symptoms (a new, continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss or change in their sense of taste or smell) to book themselves in for a test.

“Please note that tests are available by appointment only. To book an appointment please visit www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19- getting-tested."

People who test positive for COVID-19 will be helped by the NHS test and trace service to identify the people they’ve recently been in contact with so they can be alerted. Anyone who has had close recent contact with someone with coronavirus must then self-isolate for 14 days, if they are advised to do so by the NHS test and trace service, to help contain the spread of infection.