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Rapid COVID-19 testing centres for people without symptoms of the virus have so far carried out more than 1,500 tests.
Around 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 have no symptoms and could be spreading the disease without knowing it, so residents are being urged to make use of the new test sites to help fight the spread of the virus. However, locals should note that a positive test will result in the need to self-isolate for 10 days.
The centres enable people to conduct free lateral tests taking less than 30 minutes to complete. So far, 1,563 swabs have been taken across the sites – all of which tested negative for COVID-19.
Simon Cant, landlord of The Castle Inn, in Newport, and The Vine Inn, in St Helens, said:
“While the pubs are closed I’m working for the Royal Mail delivering parcels.
“I’ve come for a test to make sure I’m keeping people safe when delivering – and my work colleagues safe. The is not painful – get tested, keep calm and carry on Britain!”
The centres are at County Hall in Newport, The Heights in Sandown, Westridge Centre in Ryde, the Community Hall of Yarmouth and District in Yarmouth and the Isle of Wight Community Club in Cowes. People can book a test via our Keep the Island safe website.
Those with COVID-19 symptoms should not use these sites but instead call 119 or visit www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.
