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Rapid coronavirus tests now available across Bristol
Anyone in Bristol can get now get a rapid coronavirus test, which is for people without coronavirus symptoms and can give a result in 30 minutes.
People are being encouraged to take the test regularly to help prevent another coronavirus outbreak ahead of restrictions easing on Monday, April 12.
The test is being offered at the Bristol Rapid Testing Centre on Wellington Road, from 9am-8pm on weekdays and from 9am-5pm on weekends. An appointment is not needed.
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A self-test kit to take home can also be picked up in the afternoon at local collection sites, including Victoria Rooms Car Park, Netham Park and Hengrove Leisure Park. Portway Park and Ride is also a collection point for tests to take at home from 9am-3pm. The tests can be ordered to your home as well.
People in Bristol can now turn up at a local testing site or collection point for a rapid coronavirus test. Photo: Martin Booth
Christina Gray, Bristol’s director of public health, says that rapid testing is important as one in three people with coronavirus do not have symptoms but can still infect others.
“This form of lateral flow (rapid) testing works best when it is done regularly and often, to pick up people who are highly infectious and people who don’t have any symptoms,” she says.
“Access to asymptomatic testing is an important part of the government’s plan to cautiously ease restrictions across the country. As the city begins to open more widely, the early detection of positive cases of COVID-19 will help to stop chains of transmission and support our efforts to keep our communities safe and protected.”
Those whose rapid tests come back positive should self-isolate and book an appointment for a PCR test. Anyone showing coronavirus symptoms should also get a PCR test rather than a rapid test.
You can find out more about rapid coronavirus testing in the city on the Bristol City Council website: www.bristol.gov.uk/coronavirus/guide-to-rapid-testing
Main photo by Bristol City Council
Read more: Coronavirus mobile testing unit reopens at Portway Park & Ride
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