HEALTH chiefs say there is capacity for further coronavirus testing at Leighton Hospital – but eligible residents must book by email.

Key workers and people in their household who are experiencing coronavirus symptoms can book a test for Covid-19 at Leighton or the Countess of Chester by email.

The Government has now expanded testing for more people, to include:

  • All key workers including NHS and social care workers
  • Anyone over 65 with symptoms
  • Anyone with symptoms whose work cannot be done from home
  • Anyone who has symptoms of coronavirus and lives with any of those identified above.

Tracey Cole, executive director of strategy and partnerships at NHS Cheshire clinical commissioning group, said: “The people of Cheshire need as many of our key workers as possible to be able to continue to fulfil their vital roles.

“With a negative test, many key workers who are currently self-isolating could potentially return to work."

While tests can be booked online using the national programme, this does not apply to the Cheshire sites, only the nearest regional testing centres at Manchester Airport, Preston College and Haydock.

To be eligible for testing, you must be in the first five days of Covid-19 symptoms or self-isolating because an adult or child in your household is in their first five days of Covid-19 symptoms.

Anyone who attempts to turn up at a testing facility that has not followed the correct booking procedure or fits the eligibility criteria will be turned away, with no exceptions.

More detailed information on the types of workers who are now eligible for testing can be found at gov.uk/coronavirus-get-tested

Booking for the Cheshire sites must be done by email to cheshireccg.covid19@nhs.net

Social care workers, residents in care homes, NHS workers and patients are also being tested, with or without symptoms.

For more information visit cheshireccg.nhs.uk/news/news-stories/covid-19-testing-in-cheshire-what-you-need-to-know