There are now over 50 places for people to get rapid Covid 19 tests in Havering, meaning it’s now easier than ever to get tested and help keep Havering safe.
Havering Council opened two new rapid testing sites this week, in Collier Row and Upminster.
The new sites are located in North Romford Community Centre on Clockhouse Lane, and Upminster Methodist Church on Hall Lane.
They replace the former testing sites in Collier Row and Elm Park libraries, which will shortly return to normal library service.
In addition to the five rapid testing sites, residents of Havering can now collect rapid home testing kits from any of the borough’s libraries, as well as over 30 pharmacies across Havering.
One in three people who have Covid 19 do not show any symptoms, and as the country continues to open up from lockdown, it is now more important than ever to get tested twice per week and avoid spreading the virus unwittingly.
Havering residents are encouraged to book a test at their local testing site, and then collect their home testing kits to continue testing twice a week.
When testing at home, make sure to record your result online, whether it is positive or negative – this only takes a couple of minutes.
Those who have had one or both doses of the Covid 19 vaccine should continue to test regularly, as they can still pass on the infection.
Appointments can be booked online through Havering's Covid 19 testing page, and drop-in slots will be available throughout the day.
Rapid testing is one part of a number of measures people can take to keep their friends and family safe, including getting vaccinated when invited to, ensuring good hand washing practice, maintaining social distancing, and getting plenty of fresh air.
Councillor Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, said:
“With so many places to access rapid Covid 19 tests in Havering, there is no excuse for anyone not to get regularly tested. The more steps you take, the safer we all are.
“Regular rapid testing helps the NHS track infection hotspots as well as areas where infections are remaining low, so it’s vital that you continue to test and report the results online – even if you test negative.
“It has been wonderful to see so many shops and businesses return to work, and I’m looking forward to the better days ahead, but we cannot risk falling at the last hurdle.”
Testing is only available for those not showing symptoms. If you are showing Covid 19 symptoms, please do not visit a rapid testing site - you should self-isolate immediately and book a test online or by calling 119.