Coronavirus infection rates have risen locally and across the country in recent weeks, driven largely by the more infectious Delta variant which is now the dominant strain in the country.
Latest figures showing 131 people in Wolverhampton tested positive for Covid-19 in the 7 days to 19 June, though the true number of new cases will likely be higher as a third of people with Covid-19 do not have any symptoms.
They could also still be infectious and pass the virus to family, friends or colleagues.
Rapid testing can help identify these cases and break the chain of transmission and so, through its Get Up, Get Tested campaign, the City of Wolverhampton Council is encouraging people across the city to take a rapid coronavirus test twice a week, ideally 3 or 4 days apart.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: “With the Delta variant now being the most dominant strain, and infection rates continuing to rise, it’s even more important that people do all they can to stop the spread.
“So, whether you are off to work or the gym, or planning to meet up with friends and family to watch the Euros, for a coffee or meal, a big night out or any other social occasion, you should get a regular rapid Covid-19 test before doing so.
“This will give you the peace of mind that you are not unknowingly carrying the virus and potentially putting your friends, family or colleagues at risk.
“Rapid tests are free and you’ll get your result inside 30 minutes, so get up, get tested and help us get back to normal quicker.”
Free rapid testing is available from the mobile coronavirus testing unit and the pop-up testing clinic at New Cross Hospital and at the Civic Centre, The Hub at Ashmore Park and the Jamia Masjid Bilal, Newhampton Road.
Free home test kits can also be collected from the mobile unit, the Civic Centre, The Hub at Ashmore Park, PCR test centres, Bilston Market, Wolverhampton Market, WV Active leisure centres, Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre, a number of city schools and from local pharmacies offering the Pharmacy Collect service (details at NHS).
Up to 2 boxes can be collected at a time, containing a total of 14 home test kits. The kits include step-by-step instructions to complete the test, and people are reminded they should register their result, even if it is negative. More information on rapid testing, including advice about how to take the test at home, is available at Lateral Flow Home Test Kits.
Councillor Jaspal added: “It is important that people remember to register their test results, even if they are negative, as every test completed, whether positive or negative, helps us to monitor the spread of the virus in Wolverhampton.”
Please note, rapid testing is not available for people with coronavirus symptoms. Anyone with symptoms, including high temperature, a new or continuous cough, or a loss or taste or smell, should book a PCR test at NHS or by calling 119.
