A MOBILE Testing Centre will operate from the Cattle Market car park in Newton Abbot from tomorrow, Thursday, to Tuesday, June 23, opening from 10am to 4pm.

The centre is set up by the Department of Health and Social Care and is managed by members of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, so military personnel will be present. 

Although infection rates throughout the pandemic have remained relatively low in Teignbridge compared to other local authority areas, it is important that people who think they may be infected can be tested quickly to reduce the risk of the Coronavirus spreading.

Mobile testing centres are for people aged over five who have coronavirus-like symptoms to test whether they have the virus.

Full details about testing are on the government website and people can ask for a test at https://www.gov.uk/apply-coronavirus-test

People who do not have internet access and think they should be tested can ring 119.

At the test centre only those with a scheduled appointment and in a vehicle will be seen at the mobile unit and it is essential to arrive, follow all instructions and keep vehicle windows closed until instructed to open them. Individuals will be guided on what they need to do by mobile phone.

People should remain in their vehicle for the test and will be advised on what to do by the testing site staff.

The test involves taking a swab of the nose and the back of the throat, which can be done by the person themselves or assisted by someone else. Equipment for the test will be passed through the car window.

Social distancing will be maintained and all steps are taken to ensure maximum safety for staff and those being tested.

Those attending for a test are asked to take hand sanitiser or anti-bacteria hand wipes so that their hands are clean when doing the test. They should also take tissues so that they can cough into them and blow their nose before swabbing.

Results will be advised within three days, usually via a text message.