New local testing site opened in Kingston
A new walk-through coronavirus testing facility has opened for those with symptoms to book appointments at the Hawker Centre (KT2 5BH) in Kingston upon Thames.
The test site will be open from 10am-5pm on Friday, 26 February, and then daily from 8am-8pm
The new site is situated so it is easily accessible without a car. Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, practicing good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout, including while travelling to and from the testing centre.
Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through test site will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.
Testing at this site is only available for those with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.
Anyone with one or more of these symptoms, however slight, should self-isolate immediately and book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
Iona Lidington, Director of Public Health at Kingston Council, said:
“We’re making real progress in bringing down the number of new coronavirus cases, but cases are still high. The new testing site at Hawker Centre brings additional testing capacity, and I would urge anybody with symptoms to book a test straight away. It’s quick and easy to do.
“By getting tested if you have any symptoms, as well as continuing to follow the rules around HANDS - FACE - SPACE, you are helping to protect your loved ones and to keep Kingston safe.”