COVID-19 testing centre closed in Ross on Wye and moved to Hereford

A second covid testing unit has opened in Hereford City following a surge in cases.

The mobile Covid-19 testing centre for Hereford will be operating from tomorrow on the Halo Hereford Leisure Pool car park, St Martin’s Avenue, due to a rise in cases in the south of the city.

Herefordshire’s first Covid-19 testing site at Merton Meadow car park, Hereford, remains open but the additional temporary unit will make accessing a test a lot easier for people living in south Hereford.

The unit is offering tests from 10.30am until 3.30pm each day for up to 14 days initially. People will be able to book their test at the new site from 8pm tonight by ringing NHS 119 or online at https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.

It is being provided for Herefordshire Council by the regional NHS test and trace team.

Herefordshire Council’s Director of Public Health Karen Wright said: “The number of covid cases in south Hereford has risen significantly in recent days and it is important local residents have easy access to testing.

“This unit was originally located in Ross-on-Wye at the end of October due to a rise in covid cases there. But it became clear in recent days that extra testing capacity was needed in Hereford.

“The advantage of using mobile testing units is that we can move them when required to specific locations where we see an increase in cases.

“Anyone with covid symptoms should self-isolate immediately and book a test. They should only leave home to drive, or be driven by a household member, to the test centre. Those unable to attend the test centre should order a home test kit.

“Covid-19 is spreading in our county and it is extremely important that everyone in Herefordshire follows the covid rules meticulously to help protect themselves and others. We are still in the grip of a devastating pandemic which has already claimed more than one million lives worldwide.

“We must continue to wash hands thoroughly and frequently, wear a face covering over mouth and nose, as well as keeping at least 2 metres apart from others if we go out.”

People experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 – a high temperature, persistent cough, loss or change in sense of taste or smell – should immediately book a test by ringing NHS 119 or visiting https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test. They should self-isolate (not leave their home) while waiting for their test and until they have the result. Anyone who cannot get to a test centre can order a home test kit.

Anyone without family or friends to support them while self-isolating can contact Talk Community by ringing 01432 260027 or emailing talkcommunityhelpline@herefordshire.gov.uk for help and advice.