Residents in two Stirlingshire villages have been thanked by NHS Forth Valley for responding to an appeal to get tested for Covid-19. More than 1,500 people turned up at a mobile testing unit which was drafted into Fallin for three days, followed by a further three days in Cowie.

The action was prompted after a number of people in the area had tested positive for coronavirus and there was evidence of spread in the local community as well as links to cases in local schools. The testing units were deployed as a precautionary measure but one which was felt to be essential due to the villages being such a close-knit community.

NHS Forth Valley Consultant in Public Health, Dr Henry Prempeh, said: “This was a fantastic response to testing arrangements which were set up at very short notice. Working closely with Stirling Council who helped get the message out there within a very short time frame, around 30% of local residents took up the offer.

“Initial results suggest that the positive rates are no higher per head of population than anywhere else in Forth Valley which is very encouraging. However even identifying a small number of asymptomatic individuals is worthwhile as this will help reduce further spread within these communities.”

While the mobile testing units have now moved on, local people in both villages are being encouraged to remain vigilant and to book a test immediately if they develop any symptoms of Covid-19.  Appointments can be booked via the NHS Inform website for local testing centres at the University of Stirling (located in the East Car park between the Innovation Park and the Stirling Court Hotel) and the new walk-in testing centre at Forthside, adjacent to the Engine Shed. People can also phone the NHS Inform coronavirus helpline to book an appointment on 0800 028 2816 if they can’t access the online test booking form or need help to complete it.

The symptoms of Covid-19 are any of the following:

• A high temperature or fever
• A new, continuous cough
• A loss of, or change in sense of smell or taste

Further information on Covid-19 is available on the NHS Inform website: www.nhsinform.scot