With Covid cases on the rise across Forth Valley as winter approaches, Community Coronavirus Testing is once again available across Stirling this week.

The increase of positive cases in Forth Valley and many other areas of Scotland in recent weeks has provided a stark reminder that the virus is still within local communities.

Mobile testing will be available in different locations at the very heart of Stirling’s communities from Tuesday 2^nd November until Sunday 7^th November, targeting higher footfall areas and harder to reach communities.

Residents across Stirling who do not currently have any symptoms of Covid-19 can voluntarily attend the Coronavirus testing units.

Testing throughout Stirling

There is no need to book and testing is available at the following locations and times:

• Tuesday 2nd November – Raploch Community Centre, FK8 1RD – 10.30am-4pm.
• Thursday 4th November – Callander, The Meadows Car Park, FK17 8BB – 10.30am-4pm.
• Friday 5th November – The Vue, Forthside Car Park, FK8 1QZ – 10am-4pm.
• Saturday 6th November – Cowie Community Centre Car Park, Cowie, FK7 7BL – 10am-4pm.
• Sunday 7th November – Drymen Primary School, G63 0DY – 11am-3.30pm.

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

Help suppress the virus

Stirling Council Leader, Councillor Scott Farmer, said: “Once again we have seen new cases of the virus across Forth Valley and with winter approaching it should make people aware that there is no room for complacency in continuing our efforts to suppress COVID-19.

“That is why community testing is so important. Remember, even if you’re not showing any form of symptoms, it is still possible that you may have the virus and can pass it on to others.

“It’s extremely important that we all continue to take care and be cautious for the sake of everyone in our communities. Please, do your bit and help keep others safe.”

National programme of walk-in testing

The testing units are part of a national programme of walk-in testing. The initiative aims to drive down local Covid-19 rates 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.

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.

NHS Forth Valley’s Director of Public Health, Dr Graham Foster, said: “We are still seeing large numbers of positive cases in local communities across Forth Valley and the rest of Scotland which clearly shows the virus is still out there.

“Thankfully, due to the vaccination programme, fewer people are becoming seriously unwell due to Covid-19 however there is no room for complacency and I’d urge everyone to remain vigilant and take sensible steps to help protect themselves and others, particularly as we head into the winter period.

“This includes taking regular Covid-19 tests, particularly if you have attended events or busy venues and ensuring you take up the offer a free flu vaccine and Covid-19 booster if you are eligible.”

These sites are 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.