More than 1,300 tested in battle to beat Indian variant Covid strain in Suffolk
Health officials have tested 500 people today in Needham Market in the second day of battling against the Indian Covid variant.
Saturday saw around 800 tests completed and officials put a second Mobile Testing Unit in operation today.
Bosses have confirmed the testing will go on again tomorrow.
A decision will then be taken to see if there is still the demand for the second unit. The final day for tests is Saturday 29 May.
From tomorrow, appointments will officially no longer be required, and members of the public are welcome to “walk-up” for tests. This is due to the numbers stabilising and capacity on site to be able to manage this.
Stuart Keeble, Director of Public Health at Suffolk County Council, said: “We have seen around 1,300 people tested over the weekend, which is a great response from the Needham Market community and I thank everyone who is coming forward.
"I understand that people are also ordering PCR test kits to do at home, with their children, which is encouraging to hear.
“I’m pleased to say that from Monday you will no longer need to book an appointment and you may simply turn up at the Needham Market mobile testing unit for your PCR test. This will be helpful for people who were unable to book online, or who work in the town during the week.
“If you are local to, or work in Needham Market, please visit the site this week for your PCR test and help us to understand if the virus is spreading. I continue to ask everyone in Suffolk to follow national guidance: hands, face, space, open windows at home if you have visitors, and go for your first or second vaccination appointment when it is offered to you.”
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