Mobile coronavirus testing unit returns to Wirral

Mobile coronavirus testing unit returns to Wirral

Additional COVID-19 testing will be available in Wirral with the return of the mobile testing unit to West Kirby this week. 

This site will operate, strictly by appointment only, from Wednesday June 24 to Friday June 26. Anyone who turns up at the testing facility without an appointment will be turned away.

Wirral Council and Wirral CCG* have been working together to bring the mobile unit back and the site will now offer up to 400 ‘self-swab' tests per day over the three-day period to those with an appointment.

Everyone over the age of five who is showing symptoms of coronavirus – a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss of or change to their sense of smell or taste – is eligible to apply for a test.

Residents who meet the above criteria can apply for a test at the NHS website or the Gov.uk website, and select the Wirral site as an option via the booking process.  Instructions on how to take the test and how and when individuals will receive their results will be provided when they take their test.

This is a drive through, self-testing centre. People will need to drive in their own vehicle or a vehicle driven by a someone in their household. 

The mobile unit is in addition to Wirral’s satellite testing centre in Bidston. For the latest information, visit www.wirral.gov.uk/test  where you can also book a test at the Bidston satellite site.

Julie Webster, Wirral Director of Public Health, said: “By increasing local testing, we will be able to slow the spread of the coronavirus and make sure people get the right advice for themselves their family and anyone they may have been in contact with.

“The mobile testing facility will support Wirral’s existing satellite testing site at Bidston which is now accessible for all those in the borough who are symptomatic with COVID-19 – although it will continue to prioritise health and social care and other key workers. 

"This has been a tough time for our communities and testing helps us understand the spread of the virus and help to bring some normality back into people’s lives in the coming weeks and months.”

*Wirral Clinical Commissioning Group