A new Covid-19 testing centre has opened in Leamington today (Wednesday 21 October) making it easier for Kenilworth residents to book a test locally

The facility which is located on Court Street in South Leamington, will be available to Kenilworth residents who have booked a COVID-19 test in advance by visiting the NHS website or calling 119.

The site will take advance appointments both to those arriving on foot or by car and is part of an ongoing drive to improve accessibility for testing in the district.

Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, washing their hands thoroughly before and after and wearing a face covering throughout, including travelling to and from the testing unit.

Anyone attending an appointment will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely. Testing is available for everyone, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.

Warwick District Council's Portfolio Holder for Health and Community Protection Councillor Judy Falp commented "With coronavirus cases on the rise, I am making an urgent plea for anyone with symptoms; a new continuous cough, high-temperature or loss or change in the sense of taste and smell, to get a test to help stop the spread of the virus and protect family and friends around them.

"This new facility in Leamington Spa is part of the national test and trace initiative and will play a crucial part in managing the virus in our area, preventing lockdowns and saving lives."

Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health, Councillor Les Caborn added "The new Covid-19 testing centre in Leamington Spa is an important step forward in increasing the county's capacity to test for the virus.

"Right now, more than ever it's essential for anyone with symptoms of the virus to get a test as soon as they can and to self-isolate until they get their results."

Anyone who tests positive for coronavirus in England will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them track their contacts. This will help people to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.

Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, advising them to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus. They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms.

Tests are free and take less than a minute. Results from tests are normally returned within 24-48 hours.