Mobile coronavirus testing unit hits the road in Wolverhampton
A mobile coronavirus testing unit has been set up in Wolverhampton.
New units will see specially-trained armed forces personnel take swabs before they are sent off for processing.
And one of the mobile facilities – which can be set up in under 20 minutes – is now travelling across Wolverhampton, chiefs have confirmed.
Government testing minister Lord Bethell said: "We have been clear that everyone who needs a coronavirus test should be able to access one and our mobile testing units take tests directly to the people that need them.
"Mobile units provide a vital service to protect the vulnerable and help people that test negative for the virus safely get back to work.
"The mobile unit in Wolverhampton is one of a growing network of pop-up sites travelling across the country."
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The units allow hundreds of people each day to be tested – including those most in need and the hard to reach.
The facilities travel to where they are needed most – including police stations, prisons, care homes and hospitals.
Testing is most effective within one to three days of symptoms developing and should take place within the first five days.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, Wolverhampton council's cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, said: "Testing is one of the most important interventions that will enable the effective management of the coronavirus pandemic.
"The message is clear, if you or a member of your household is showing symptoms of coronavirus, please book a test. This will confirm whether or not you or someone you live with has the infection, and enable you to get the advice you need to manage your situation. If you don't have symptoms of coronavirus, you cannot have the test."
Testing involves taking a swab of the inside of the nose and back of the throat using a long cotton bud. They are not suitable for children under five.
For more information or to apply, visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus
