An update on COVID-19 testing in Kirklees
We’re aware that a high demand across the country is causing issues for people trying to access COVID-19 testing.
We advise anyone with symptoms to get tested for COVID-19 to prevent the spread of the virus. However, the Government has confirmed that a high demand nationally is causing problems for people trying to get tested.
This issue is something that is beyond our control in Kirklees, but we understand that the Government is working to rectify these issues.
The easiest way to get a test at your nearest available testing centre is by visiting the Government’s website if you have symptoms. You can also call 119 for advice and support.
To help with this demand, we ask that people follow the below latest guidance from Government on when to get tested:
- The main symptoms of coronavirus are: a high temperature, a new, continuous cough and a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.
- Only if you have one of these symptoms should you book a test.
- If someone in your household starts to have symptoms, then that person must get tested and the rest of the household should self-isolate with them whilst they wait for the results.
- If you or other members of the household don’t have symptoms, then you should not get a test – only people with symptoms should get tested.
- If you are unable to get a test but need medical advice about your symptoms, you can call 111.
Full guidance on self-isolation is available on gov.uk
Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Strategic Director for Public Health at Kirklees Council, said: “We know that many of you are facing problems when trying to book a COVID-19 test. The Government has assured us that they are working to tackle these problems so everyone who needs a test can access one easily.
“Testing helps stop the virus from spreading within our community but please only get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms and make sure you book in advance.
“The best way of preventing the spread of COVID-19 is still to social distance, wear a face mask in enclosed spaces and wash your hands regularly. Please also follow the latest Government guidance on not socialising in groups larger than six.”
Stay up to date with COVID-19 infection rates in Kirklees
You can stay up to date with rates of positive cases, which areas the cases are in, how Kirklees compares to neighbouring areas and the rest of the country and more by viewing the Kirklees Covid-19 cases dashboard.
people dont seem to understand that you only need a test if you have symptoms of the virus. If you donr just stay safe..
Hello Joanne, the Government has confirmed that a high demand nationally is causing problems for people trying to get tested. This issue is something that is beyond our control in Kirklees, but we understand that the Government is working to rectify these issues. We can only suggest to keep checking the government website for appointments/home testing kits. Kind regards ^EMT
It is impossible to get a test.
I have been trying on government website for over 24 hours. Even when offered an appointment in Oldham, which I accepted, it wouldn’t give me a slot as there must have been so many people trying at the same time.
I’ve just been to the sands in Holmfirth to try and see if they would test my son without having a slot, but the mobile testing unit is not there.
None of what I write below is Kirklees fault.
There is no way of finding out where walk in centres are on a day to day basis. There is no way of booking a local test. Yesterday I was offered a test in Nelson in Lancashire. That’s and hour and a half drive away. How do I do that feeling unfit?
Apparently care workers and care home residents, NHS staff are to be prioritised, rightly so.
But what about school children, Teachers and Teaching Assistants. Schools are struggling. They either ignore or bend the guidelines, or close off massive amounts of children from education.
As I say, none of this is Kirklees fault, but it needs fixing, and quickly.
I think it is vital that people read the important bit. IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS GET TESTED.