Covid testing site to re-open at Himley tomorrow
A temporary drive-through coronavirus test site is to re-open at Himley Hall and Park tomorrow (Tue Jan 5).
The site will be one of four operating in the borough and all tests must be booked in advance.
There are also two walk-through test centres on Flood Street car park (off Oakeywell Street) in Dudley and on Jackson Street car park in Lye.
Meanwhile a drive through mobile test site at Brierley Hill - currently located on the Grey 7 car park - will move back to Engine Lane from January 6.
All those attending an appointment will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.
The Himley site will be open seven days a week and appointments must be made in advance by calling 119 or visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.
Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care said:
I welcome the return of the testing site to Himley. It will take the number of testing sites up to four across the borough and is much needed at a time when numbers are rising higher than ever before.
The site at Himley will make it easier for residents to access testing, and hopefully help us get on top of this virus which is impacting on all of our lives.
All people attending the centres must wear a face covering, with the exception of children under three years old, who must observe social distancing on site. Children over three will only be admitted if they are wearing a face covering. If they cannot wear a face mask for medical reasons, then they should request a home test.
The testing centre is being operated in partnership with Serco and will offer self-administered tests.
Anyone with coronavirus symptoms is urged to book an appointment for a test as soon as possible by calling 119 or visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus
Testing is vital to stop the spread of coronavirus in local communities. Anyone testing positive for the virus 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, asking them to stay at home for 10 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus. They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms.