WEDNESDAY, 2 JUNE, 2021

Immediate release.

More COVID-19 testing sites available for Dundee residents

Following an increase in the number of cases of COVID-19 in Dundee of the Delta variant (also known as the variant first identified in India), testing sites across the city are now open for people to get tested, whether they have symptoms or not.

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.

“There are also still people who have not been vaccinated or who have not had both doses of the vaccine so it’s vital we do everything we can to keep everyone safe.

“We know the new variant that is currently circulating in Dundee is more infectious so please take advantage of the testing facilities and help us drive numbers back down again.”

In addition to the mobile testing vans which are now visiting the Dundee International Sports Centre (DISC) four times a week, the following testing sites will now offer a PCR test to people whether or not they have any symptoms of the virus.

Booking is preferred and you can book a test at www.nhsinform.scot or by calling 0800 028 2816. If you need support with the booking process, call 119. People without bookings will also be accepted.

The sites will also offer collection of LFD rapid testing kits for people to take home.

The mobile testing vans are visiting the following sites:

The mobile 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 119.

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

Contact:

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 424138