Patients attend region's first mass testing site in Wolverhampton
A mass Covid test centre welcomed the first patients yesterday who attended for "peace of mind" that they were not infected.
The rapid testing test site, at Wolverhampton Civic Centre, has opened up to people who have no symptoms where they can receive results within an hour. It is the first facility of its kind in the region.
Anybody with symptoms is asked not to attend the rapid testing site and instead call 119 or book a test online.
It was a smooth operation yesterday where friendly staff welcomed the first patients at 8am.
There was a handful of people in the queue at that time but a greater number of people were expected throughout the day.
First in line was Denise Simms, 58, from Wolverhampton, who said: "I think this is a really good thing. People can know what is going on and this could help us get out of Tier 3, into Tier 2.
"I am more concerned about my mom [in the coronavirus pandemic]. I have come to get a test today to make sure I don't pass it onto her or my grandchildren. It is more about piece of mind."
A man, who was second in queue, and wished to remain anonymous, said: "I have attended today because work asked me to. I have been self-isolating, and I think it is safe for me to return, and they reckon no I need to get tested first."
Paul Kendall, 60, from Wolverhampton, said: "The test was fine. It makes you choke a bit and it is up your nose, but it is not that painful, I have had worse at the dentist.
"I am 60-years-old, I want to make sure I am okay.
"I look after my mom too, she is 85."
Edith Dixon, 73, Coven Heath, said: "This test site is good. You need to find out.
"They reckon some people have got it, and they don't know it, because they have got no symptoms.
"This is brilliant what they have done here. We expected there to be a massive queue but there wasn't one. But I think there will be later on. It was all very well organised."
