ESSENTIAL workers without Covid-19 symptoms can now book a rapid test at pharmacies in Oswestry and Ellesmere.

These tests are available for people who cannot work from home, who live or work in Shropshire and who do not have any symptoms of Covid-19.

The local pharmacies offering pre-booked appointments are Ellesmere Pharmacy, St Martins Pharmacy, and Old Chapel Pharmacy in Oswestry.

This is addition a council-run rapid testing centre at Thomas Adams Sixth Form in Wem.

Rapid turnaround tests are supplied by NHS Test and Trace and will help identify people who are positive for Covid-19 but have no symptoms.

The speedy tests can rapidly turn around results within an hour without the need for processing the swabs in a lab.

The tests are taken using nose and throat swabs and the results are much faster than the standard test which goes to a lab.

There are no costs, but anyone getting a test will need to follow social distancing and wear a face covering.

Anyone with one or more of these symptoms – a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste – should continue to book a test at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.

Walk-in rapid testing sites, without the need for booking, will also be available from Monday, February 22 at The Victoria Centre in Victoria Road, Oswestry.

Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council's director of public health, welcomed more ways for people to get tested.

She said: "This is another important way for us to support our residents to stay healthy and well.

"We know that people are concerned about unwittingly spreading the virus.

"These tests offer a way for people to have that peace of mind, and if they do test positive, act quickly to self-isolate and reduce the risk to others.

"These rapid tests will help our frontline workers to get tested regularly.

"Those testing positive can take immediate action and self-isolate – reducing the impact on the wider community.

"We have expanded our offer following the success and demand at the centres at The Lantern in Shrewsbury and Craven Arms Community Centre to offer greater availability and access."

Tests can be booked online using https://www.1centralhealth.co.uk/shropshirelft

For local advice and support during the pandemic (especially if you are self-isolating or shielding), call Shropshire Council's Covid-19 Helpline on 0345 678 9028 (or visit our website at www.shropshire.gov.uk/coronavirus

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