Getting a test for COVID-19 is being made easier for many Plymouth residents with the opening of new local test centres in the city centre and at Plymouth Marjon University.
The centres, which are being sponsored by the DHSC and operated by Serco, are in addition to the regional test centre at the former Seaton Barracks site off William Prance Road.
The city centre site is in the lower Guildhall and was selected as it is easier for many people to get to without using a car. Anyone going for a test is asked to walk or cycle to and from the site and not use public transport or taxis.
The centre at Plymouth Marjon University is in the lower car park outside the gymnasium and is separated from the rest of the campus.
Testing is available only for those with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste.
Anyone with one or more of these symptoms should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119. The three Plymouth centres are provided as an option when booking a test, subject to availability.
Those being tested are asked to wash their hands before leaving home, wear a face covering on their journey to and from the centre and to not stop anywhere on the way.
Anyone testing positive for the virus 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, asking 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. However, they should not book a test if they don’t have symptoms.