People in Sandwell who feel unwell without Covid-19 symptoms told to get tested
People who live in Sandwell are being invited to take a Covid-19 test if they are felling unwell – even if they are not displaying the three key symptoms of coronavirus.
They are being invited to take a PCR test – the original test that has been used since the start of the coronavirus pandemic for those displaying symptoms.
The tests are sent off to a laboratory and people normally receive their results within a few days.
Any adult who lives or works in Sandwell and has a headache, aches and pains, feeling very tired for no good reason, a sore throat, a runny nose or sneezing episodes can now have a PCR test. Children with any of those symptoms, as well as upset stomachs or tummy ache, can also be tested.
There is no need for residents to isolate if they have these symptoms unless they get a positive test result.
Anyone with the main three symptoms of Covid-19, a new, continuous cough, a high temperature and/or a loss or change to sense of smell, must isolate immediately and seek a test under national guidance.
Lisa McNally, director for public health in Sandwell, said: "Anyone who has a new, continuous cough, a temperature or a change or loss of sense of taste or smell must get tested immediately and self-isolate. However, these aren’t the only possible signs of Covid-19.
"For some time now we have been advising people with symptoms other than the main three Covid-19 symptoms to seek a test.
"It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially now that the new ‘Kent’ variant of the virus is very prevalent in our area.
Sensible
"Only the three main symptoms of Covid-19, which are cough, fever or changes in taste or smell, come with a legal obligation for us to self-isolate immediately.
"With other symptoms, there is no legal requirement to self-isolate unless you get a positive result. Although, if we are feeling unwell, it may of course be sensible to stay home anyway."
Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy leader of Sandwell Council, added: "We need to work together to drive down Covid-19 rates in Sandwell so I urge residents to book a test if they are feeling unwell.
"It's really easy and only takes a few minutes."
When booking a Covid-19 test, residents should select the option 'My local council or health protection team has asked me (or someone I live with) to get a test, even though I do not have symptoms'.
To book a test and for more details residents can go to www.sandwell.gov.uk/testsandwell. Those residents without internet access can ring 119 to book a test.
