The gradual easing of Coronavirus restrictions means you may now wish to take the opportunity to get together with a wider circle of people in our village (and beyond) to exercise and socialise – albeit in a ‘socially distanced’ way.
However, all personal contact still carries risks, even if you’ve been vaccinated. Therefore, if you’d like to reassure yourself you have not picked up COVID-19 which you could inadvertently pass on to others, you can now collect a FREE kit from Evans Pharmacy on Charles Street*. This ‘lateral flow test’ is specifically for individuals who do not have any symptoms of Coronavirus.
As with other collection points at NHS ‘Test & Trace Sites’ around the area, there is no charge for this service. Pharmacist Emma Anderson {pictured top} from the Ruddington branch explains: “We can supply one box of test kits per individual and they must be collected by someone over 18 years of age. There is no lower age limit on those using the tests. The tests must be done and results registered away from the pharmacy. You can phone 119 for support with the test or to register results if needed.”
Emma says that each box they give out at Evans Pharmacy contains seven tests: “These tests can be given to everyone. You might be asked your age and if you leave the house for work or are in a childcare bubble for monitoring purposes.” However, she adds: “No identity is needed. You do not need to give us your name.”
Please note that these tests are only suitable if you do not have Coronavirus symptoms. If you do have symptoms you should find a test centre via test-and-trace.nhs.uk as soon as possible or phone 119 to book a PCR test. Of course, you should also do this if the kit gives you a positive result.
*UPDATE: MON 4th OCT 2021
From today you will need to get a collection code online before going to collect your self-test kit. The link you need for Evans Pharmacy in Ruddington is >>HERE<<.
