Walk-through Covid-19 Test Centre Set Up in Acton

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Pre-booked testing available for people showing symptoms of the virus

The Michael Flanders Centre. Picture: Richard Vince

Another local walk-through coronavirus testing centre has opened at the Michael Flanders Centre in Acton, making it easier for local people to get a test for Covid-19.

It is on Church Lane just south of the High Street and, according to Ealing Council, is operating seven days a week from 8am to 8pm.

Residents must book a test before attending any testing centre by ringing 119 or visiting the NHS web site. It is not possible to book a test by contacting the testing centre. Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through site will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely. Testing is available for everyone, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.

Anyone experiencing coronavirus symptoms (fever, cough, loss/change in taste or smell), however mild, can get a free swab test that takes less than a minute.

Everyone with symptoms can book or order a test here.

Essential workers and members of their households can access priority testing at the GOV.UK website.

The new test centre follows the opening of another walk-through test centre in the borough a couple of weeks ago at Featherstone Car Park in Southall, and the mobile testing unit which is open on specific days at Gurnell Leisure Centre.

Residents can book or order a test at home, by appointment at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119, and can expect results in 24-48 hours.

Anyone who has Covid-19 symptoms should be isolating at home. The only reason to leave the house will be to attend the testing site – they must walk or cycle to the site, wearing a face covering and must not use public transport or a taxi. They must also practice other public health measures, such as hand hygiene and social distancing.

Anyone testing positive for the virus must continue to isolate together with their household. They will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them track their contacts. This will help people to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.

Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, advising them to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus. They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms.

The test involves taking a swab of the nose and the back of the throat, which can be done by the person themselves (self-administered) or by someone else (assisted). Those being tested may experience some mild discomfort but it should not hurt.

October 4, 2020