Community testing returns to Cowie this Thursday, 17^th June, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce the spread of Covid-19 across Stirling.

Residents across Stirling who do not currently have any symptoms of Covid-19 can voluntarily attend the Coronavirus testing unit, which will be available at Cowie Community Centre from this Thursday until Sunday 20^th June.

There is also the opportunity to pick up Lateral Flow Device (LFD) testing kits to take home in a pack of seven.

There is no need to book and testing is available at Cowie Community Centre, Manse Park/Main St, Cowie, FK7 7BL on the following times and dates:

• Thursday 17^th June to Saturday 19^th June 12-6pm.
• Sunday 20^th June 9am-12pm.

Stirling Council Leader, Councillor Scott Farmer, said: “It is important that our communities remain vigilant and do all they can to help prevent the spread of the virus across Stirling.

“This community testing is part of a national programme which is being scheduled on a rotational basis in different parts of Stirling for all of our residents.

“The tests are available for people without Coronavirus symptoms and we are hoping that residents will recognise the benefits of taking part in these local testing efforts

“They are completely voluntary and are there for anyone who may want one. Please, if you have the opportunity, take the time to get involved.”

All residents who don’t have any of the three Covid-19 symptoms (a new continuous cough, temperature, loss or change in sense of taste or smell) are encouraged to get tested.

Test results will be available in around 45 minutes and can be received at home rather than having to wait at the testing facility. Anyone with a positive test will be asked to undertake a confirmatory PCR test.

The national community testing initiative is currently rotating between Stirling’s two dedicated locations of Callander and Cowie.

The initiative aims to drive down local Covid-19 rates and transmission by identifying positive cases more quickly, as people can spread the virus to others before symptoms appear and many may not experience any symptoms at all.

Dr Graham Foster, NHS Forth Valley’s Director of Public Health, said:  “We are still seeing new cases of coronavirus in Forth Valley every day linked to local businesses, workplaces, households and schools which clearly shows the virus is still out there and hasn’t gone away. That’s why testing is so important to help prevent people with no symptoms from spreading the virus to friends, family or colleagues without realising it.”

“However, there is no room for complacency as we are still seeing new cases of coronavirus in Forth Valley every day, which clearly shows the virus is still out there and hasn’t gone away. That’s why testing is so important to help prevent people with no symptoms from spreading the virus to friends, family or colleagues without realising it.”

This site is only for people without symptoms. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms should book a test in the usual way via nhsinform.scot or by calling 0800 028 2816.