SOLIHULL has a new coronavirus testing unit after the borough saw a fourfold increase in infections in the past fortnight.
The rapid increase in Covid-19 cases since the August bank holiday has led public health chiefs to set up a new test centre in Monkspath Hall Road car park, close to Solihull town centre.
A spokeswoman for Solihull Council said: “People can only get a free test at the mobile test unit if they have coronavirus symptoms: a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.
“It is important not to get a test if you do not have symptoms, unless you have been specifically directed to have one, to make sure that tests are available for anyone who needs one.
“Tests must be booked via the online national NHS booking system or by calling 119. Please do not turn up without a booking.”
The test unit is placed at the rear of Monkspath Hall Road car park, close to Park View Day Centre until September 18. Public health directors intend to keep it in place if the infection rates remain high.
The site will open to booked appointments from 10.30am-3.30pm daily and signs will be in place to direct drivers to the facility.
Ruth Tennant, Director of Public Health, said “Testing is an important tool we have to control the spread of the virus. But it’s also essential that anyone with COVID symptoms self-isolates for 10 days from when their symptoms first started. The test tells you if you have COVID but it’s the self-isolation that stops it spreading.
“Residents are reminded to keep following the rules to keep the infection rate down. Please keep social distancing, hand washing and wearing face coverings where required.”
