Updated 29.7.20
Mobile testing units are being introduced this week to make it easier for people living in communities on the edge of Wrexham town centre to get a Covid-19 test.
The easy-access testing facilities will be based in Hightown and Caia Park for several days starting from Wednesday (July 29).
As well as making it easier to get a test, the move will help public health experts get a better understanding of the situation in Wrexham.
Residents living in these areas are being encouraged to get a test if they think they have symptoms…no matter how mild.
The work is being co-ordinated by Public Health Wales, Wrexham Council and other partners, with support from local voluntary sector organisation AVOW and community groups.
Just like in other parts of the country, the testing stations will be managed by the army.
Making it easier for people to get tested
Councillor Hugh Jones, Wrexham Council’s Lead Member for Communities, Partnerships, Public Protection and Community Safety, says:
“We’re working with our partners to provide easy-access testing in edge-of-town communities in Wrexham.
“As well as making it easier for people to get a test, it will also help Public Health Wales gain further insight into the local situation.
“The mobile testing units will be based in Hightown and Caia Park over the next few days, and you can go to either testing station if you live in and around these areas. The process is quick and easy.”
However, if you feel really unwell, you should use the online symptom checker or dial 111 (or call 999 if you think there’s something seriously wrong).
For example, don’t try to walk to a testing centre if you’re struggling to catch your breath.
Even if you have mild symptoms, you should get a test
Dr Chris Williams of Public Health Wales says:
“Providing easy-access testing will help us further understand the situation in Wrexham.
“We’re encouraging anyone who thinks they may have symptoms – even very mild ones – to take advantage of the mobile testing units while they’re in the area, and go and get a test.
“Testing is a really important part of the strategy for managing Covid-19 in Wales, so it’s important people step forward if they think they have symptoms.
“Covid-19 can spread in community settings, not just in workplaces.
“If you do test positive, you’ll be given advice by contact tracers at Wrexham Council.
“They’ll advise you on how long to isolate for and what support you can get to help you through the isolation period.
“They’ll also ask for your help in tracing people you’ve been in close contact with recently.”
If you’re worried about work
A lot of people might be worried about getting a test in case it means they have to isolate and can’t go to work.
Councillor Hugh Jones says:
“People need to pay bills and put food on the table, and it’s understandable that many will worry about testing positive and having to miss work.
“However, a lot of people may be able to get financial support and the council and its partners will help people access this information.”
Let’s keep Wrexham safe and well
Councillor Jones adds:
“If you think you have symptoms – no matter how mild – please take advantage of the easy access testing in Hightown and Caia Park later this week.
“Public Health Wales, the council and our partners are here to support you. Let’s help keep Wrexham, our families and communities safe and well.
“It’s also important to remember that coronavirus hasn’t gone away, and we all still have a vital role to play in preventing its spread by sticking to social distancing guidelines and staying two metres away from others, as well as washing our hands regularly.”
Where and when you can get a test
The mobile testing centres will be at Caia Park Health Centre on Prince Charles Road, and at Hightown Community Resource Centre, Fusilier Way, off Bryn Y Cabanau Road, from Wednesday, July 29.
We’ll confirm the location in Hightown as soon as possible.
You can just turn-up between 9am and 6pm from Wednesday (July 29) onward. It’s safe, simple and easy.
Other ways to get a test
You can also apply for a test online or by phone.
Take a look at the Welsh Government website for more info.
Remember…if you feel really unwell, use the online symptom checker or dial 111 (or call 999 if you think there’s something seriously wrong).
