New COVID-19 testing centre opens at University of Lancaster

A new coronavirus testing centre has opened its doors in Lancaster today (Friday, October 16) as Lancashire enters Tier 3 lockdown from tomorrow.
The new coronavirus testing facility, operated by private contractor G4S, opened today (Friday, October 16) at Lancaster Conference Centre, situated on the University of Lancaster campusThe new coronavirus testing facility, operated by private contractor G4S, opened today (Friday, October 16) at Lancaster Conference Centre, situated on the University of Lancaster campus
The new coronavirus testing facility, operated by private contractor G4S, opened today (Friday, October 16) at Lancaster Conference Centre, situated on the University of Lancaster campus

The new coronavirus testing facility, operated by private contractor G4S, is located at Lancaster Conference Centre on the University of Lancaster campus.

Testing is available on appointment to those showing coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.

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The test involves taking a swab of the nose and the back of the throat, which can be done by the person themselves (self-administered) or by someone else (assisted). Those being tested may experience some mild discomfort but it should not hurt.

Anyone taking a test at the site can expect their results the next day, say Public Health England.

It says the new site - located four miles from Lancaster city centre - is situated "so as to be easily accessible without a car", and those being tested are not permitted to travel by taxi or public transport as part of public health measures.

PHE has not provided guidance on how people can get to the site from the city without a car or public transport.

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A spokesman for Public Health England said: "The new site is situated so as to be 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, practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face-covering throughout, including while travelling to and from the testing centre."

Testing at the new site will start today (Friday, October 16), with appointments made available each day.

PHE says anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through testing 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.

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If you are showing symptoms, you should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.

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