Enhance Community COVID Testing

Boston Borough residents encouraged to access testing even if they have no Covid-19 symptoms

A major Covid-19 community testing programme will launch in Boston next week to help drive down transmission rates.

Around one in three people who are infected with Covid-19 have no symptoms so could be spreading the disease without knowing it. Broadening testing to identify those showing no symptoms will mean finding positive cases more quickly and breaking chains of transmission.

With its targeted approach, community testing aims to reduce the prevalence of the virus in the highest risk areas.  The Boston Borough has been included in the enhanced community testing programme following a successful bid to Government from Lincolnshire County Council.  Boston Borough Council has been charged with delivering the programme.

Those aged 16 and over in the Borough are being asked to access a Covid-19 test even if they have no symptoms.  Those aged 16 and 17 should be accompanied by an adult or have consent of parent/guardian.

Testing will be available for people without symptoms at the following locations from Monday, January 18, 2021, between the hours of 8am and 8pm.

• Peter Paine Performance Centre, Rosebery Avenue, Boston PE21 7QR
• Tollfield Campus Haven High, Tollfield Road, Boston PE21 9PN

The sites will remain operational 7 days a week until Sunday, February 14, 2021.

No appointment is necessary.

The test used provides an indication as to whether you have the virus in around one hour.  Where the indication is that you do have the virus, you will be required to have the full Covid-19 test.

Anyone displaying symptoms – a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste – should continue to book at test via the Government testing website at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.

Dr Neill Hepburn, Medical Director for United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust said: “Community COVID testing is a practical way we can keep our loved ones, colleagues and friends safe by preventing the spread of the virus.  You will also be doing your part to keep the health services running and available when you need them.”

More information is available at www.mybostonuk.com/coronavirus

Words provided by, Boston Borough Council