Testing began at the Castle Leazes car park on Monday 19 October, making it part of a wider network of over 500 diagnostic testing facilities across the UK.
Testing on this site is only available for those experiencing Covid-19 symptoms: a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste.
“We are delighted to be able to support our local community through the opening of the Newcastle University testing site" said Chris Day, University Vice-Chancellor and President.
“I hope that the accessibility of this new centre will offer peace of mind not only for our staff and the thousands of students that make Newcastle their home, but also for the wider community.”
This opening comes after a sudden surge of coronavirus cases within the local student community at the start of October, with 880 cases confirmed between the 8th and 14th October.
“Our new walk-through sites offer communities better access to coronavirus testing, so everyone with symptoms can get a test"
Baroness Dido Harding
The Newcastle University site is easily accessible without a car, and will be providing additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.
Anyone attending an appointment is required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by public transport and practicing good personal hygiene. Masks must be worn at all times on the way to and at the testing centre.
Baroness Dido Harding, of the National Institute for Health Protection said: “Our new walk-through sites offer communities better access to coronavirus testing, so everyone with symptoms can get a test".
“Everyone should continue to think hands, face, space, and follow the advice of NHS Test and Trace if you are contacted - this is the only way we can return to a more normal way of life.”
Anyone experiencing one or more coronavirus symptoms can book a test online at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
Featured Image: Unsplash
