People who live in Sandwell are being invited to take a ‘PCR’ Covid-19 test if they are feeling unwell, even if they are not displaying the three key symptoms.
A PCR test is the original test that has been used since the start of the pandemic. The sample is sent off to the lab and the results come back in a few days. It’s different from the rapid tests which are still only for those with no symptoms.
Any adult who lives or works in Sandwell and has a headache, aches and pains, feeling very tired for no good reason, a sore throat, a runny nose or sneezing episodes can have a PCR test. Children with any of those symptoms, as well as upset stomachs or tummy ache, can also be tested.
There is no need for residents to isolate if they have these symptoms unless they get a positive test result.
Of course, anyone with the main three symptoms of Covid-19, a new, continuous cough, a high temperature and / or a loss or change to sense of smell, must isolate immediately and seek a test under national guidance.
Test centres offering ‘PCR’ tests are open seven days a week and are at five locations in Sandwell:
- Car Park, Dudley Road, Oldbury
- Car Park, Temple Street, West Bromwich
- Car Park, St Pauls Road, Smethwick
- Car Park, Kelvin Way, West Bromwich
- Car Park in Jubilee Park, Powis Avenue, Tipton
Lisa McNally, director for public health in Sandwell, said: “Anyone who has a new, continuous cough, a temperature or a change or loss of sense of taste or smell must get tested immediately and self-isolate. However, these aren’t the only possible signs of COVID-19.
“For some time now we have been advising people with symptoms other than the main three COVID-19 symptoms to seek a test. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially now that the new ‘Kent’ variant of the virus is very prevalent in our area.
“Only the three main symptoms of COVID-19, which are cough, fever or changes in taste or smell, come with a legal obligation for us to self-isolate immediately. With other symptoms, there is no legal requirement to self-isolate unless you get a positive result. Although, if we are feeling unwell, it may of course be sensible to stay home anyway.”
Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy leader, Sandwell Council added: “We need to work together to drive down Covid-19 rates in Sandwell so I urge residents to book a test if they are feeling unwell. It’s really easy and only takes a few minutes.”
When booking a Covid-19 test residents should select the option: ‘My local council or health protection team has asked me (or someone I live with) to get a test, even though I do not have symptoms’.
