New coronavirus rapid testing site to open in York library

A new coronavirus rapid testing site will open in a York library – as walk-in appointments are launched across the city’s test centres.

Residents can now get tested at Acomb Explore Library on Wednesdays from 10am to 2pm or Saturdays from 10am to 3pm. People can also collect tests for home use.

Public health leaders are encouraging residents to take a Covid-19 rapid test twice a week, even if they do not have symptoms.

Appointments can be booked online or people can turn up without a booking at any of the test centres – including the York Leisure Centre at the stadium, the University of York, York St John University and Foxwood Community Centre.

Sharon Stoltz, York’s director of public health said: “It is crucial that people continue to get tested regularly and report their results so we can identify cases quickly and stop the virus from spreading.

“We have hope ahead with the next steps of the roadmap and the success of the vaccine rollout. However we must keep up our efforts and get tested regularly (even if you have had the vaccine) to protect people across the city.

“The only time we would ask an adult not to get tested is if they are within 90 days of having tested positive for the virus.

“By having regular tests and practicing hands, face, space, fresh air we are all playing a vital role in the city’s fight against coronavirus.”

To order tests online visit the NHS website or phone 119.