FRIDAY, 28 MAY, 2021

Immediate release.

Dundee residents encouraged to get tested at the DISC

Following an increase in the number of cases of COVID-19 in central Dundee, the drop-in community testing site for people who do not have symptoms of COVID-19 will be at the Dundee International Sports Centre (DISC) on three additional days per week.

The mobile testing vans will now visit the DISC on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from tomorrow, 28 May until Monday, 14 June when the situation will be reviewed.

The testing vans will not visit Kirkton Community Centre, Finmill Community Centre or Forthill Primary School during this period however other locations across Dundee are available for anyone without symptoms who would like to be tested.

The new timetable for the mobile testing vans will be:

Dr Emma Fletcher, NHS Tayside Director of Public Health said, “I would strongly encourage everyone to get tested even if you do not have any symptoms. Not everyone who has the virus will have symptoms, so people could be spreading the disease without knowing it. Around 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 have no symptoms but could potentially be passing the virus on to loved ones, friends and the wider community.

“We know the new variant that is currently circulating in Dundee is more infectious so please take advantage of the testing facilities and help keep everyone safe.”

The testing sites are walk-in and there is no need to book an appointment. However, to make the process quicker, you can book in advance and pre-register your details by phoning 0300 303 2713.

Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms should book a test in the usual way via nhsinform.scot or by calling 0800 028 2816.

The mobile testing units are safe and secure, with strict hygiene measures in place. Staff on site will support people through the testing process which involves self-administering a swab test. Full instructions will be provided. Testing is quick and easy with results communicated to people by text message 24 to 48 hours after the test.

Anyone who receives a positive PCR test result will be asked to self-isolate. Dedicated support is available to anyone who needs to self-isolate, including food packages and financial support. Further advice and information on what support is available for people who need to self-isolate is available from www.nhsinform.scot or www.taysidecares.co.uk

More information on the testing programme is available at www.covidtayside.scot.nhs.uk and www.taysidecares.co.uk

Background:

Anyone with the symptoms of COVID-19 – a new continuous cough, temperature, loss or change in sense of taste or smell should go online to nhsinform.scot to book a test or call 0800 028 2816 if you cannot get online.

How to self-isolate effectively – information and support for people who are asked to self-isolate because of COVID-19 is available from nhsinform.scot.

Remember FACTS for a safer Scotland:

F – Face coverings

A – Avoid crowded places

C – Clean your hands regularly

T – Two metres distance

S – Self isolate and book a test if you have symptoms

Contact:

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 424138