Covid-19 mobile testing unit at Paulton extended for second time in response to rise in local cases

The temporary Covid-19 mobile testing unit at Paulton Rovers Football Club will now be available until September 3 following a rise in confirmed cases in the Somer Valley.

Bath & North East Somerset Council’s public health team has arranged the extension to continue to give people better access to local testing after it reported an increase in cases in Midsomer Norton, Radstock and the surrounding areas yesterday (August 24).

People are being reassured that although the number of confirmed cases has gone up, there is no cause for serious concern or for any significant action to be taken.

However, anyone who thinks they have coronavirus symptoms should book a test via the Government portal or call 119. 

The mobile testing unit (MTU) is now continuing to operate daily for residents booking a test in advance until Thursday September 3, except on its two rest days of August 25 and August 30.

The facility in the football club’s car park means many people in the district do not have to travel further to get a test.

The MTU is part of the COVID-19 National Testing Programme and appointments can be made through https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested. People without internet access can dial 119.

Residents attending the Paulton unit for a test should arrive by car and not use public transport.

Only people who are experiencing symptoms of the virus are urged to book themselves in for a coronavirus test at the unit.

You can ask for a test:

• for yourself, if you have coronavirus symptoms now (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste)
• for someone you live with, if they have coronavirus symptoms

You can ask for a test for a child who lives with you if they have coronavirus symptoms, whatever their age.

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, Safeguarding and Public Health, said: “In light of the concerning rise in the number of confirmed cases in the Somer Valley, I am very pleased we are able to support residents with further access to local testing should they need it. There is no cause for serious concern but it’s essential we all play our part in getting control of the situation locally. This means we all have to take responsibility for correct social distancing, hygiene, wearing face coverings as appropriate, and self-isolating and getting a test as soon as any symptoms start. It also means isolating for a full 14 days if you are identified as a contact of a case or have returned from a high-risk area abroad.

“If anyone is concerned that they have any of the symptoms of coronavirus I would urge them to book themselves in for a test. Please remember you need to drive to the unit to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The postcode for Paulton Football Club is BS39 7RF.

People with symptoms are also advised to self-isolate at home. No one in the household or its support bubble should leave home if any one person has symptoms. There is more guidance on what this involves on the government’s website at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance

Tests at the mobile testing unit are subject to availability and if all appointments in Paulton are booked, an alternative testing site will be offered.

For tests to be effective you must be symptomatic. Symptoms of the virus are a new continuous cough, a high temperature and a loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell. More information can be found at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/check-if-you-have-coronavirus-symptoms/

More guidance can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested#who-can-be-tested

The Compassionate Community Hub offers support and advice for vulnerable people who are self-isolating. Click on this link for more info https://www.3sg.org.uk/pages/wellbeing-resources or call 0300 247 0050.

For all council service updates visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/coronavirus