Edinburgh covid test centres: Asymptomatic community test site opens in Craigmillar

A new asymptomatic Covid-19 testing centre is now open in Craigmillar – the first of its kind in Edinburgh.

From today (April 21), people who live in the area can to go to Craigmillar Library to get tested for the virus if they are not showing symptoms.

The community testing initiative, in partnership with the Scottish Government, aims to drive down local coronavirus rates and transmission by identifying positive cases more quickly, as people can spread the virus to others before symptoms appear.

Residents who do not have any of the three main Covid symptoms – a new continuous cough, temperature, loss or change in sense of taste or smell – are encouraged to get tested.

There is no need to book and testing is available until Sunday, May 2 inclusive. The ATC will be open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Residents will be tested using lateral flow devices (LFDs), which can give people their results in around 45 minutes.

Edinburgh City Council leader Adam McVey said: “Things are definitely moving in the right direction now that we're in a position to unlock gradually, but there's absolutely no room for complacency – we need to keep on top of case numbers and make sure any localised outbreaks are minimised as much as possible.

“It's really important we give people in areas where cases are higher the chance to come forward for a test even when they don't have any symptoms. That way we can monitor and help check the spread of the virus in our communities."

The new Covid testing centre, which has been setup in Craigmillar Library. Photo: Greg Macvean Photography

“Edinburgh citizens have gone above and beyond to help us tackle the pandemic by following public health guidance. These new ATCs will help us make even more progress in reducing the spread of this dreadful virus.

Centres will be rolled out in targeted areas across Edinburgh in response to public health data over the coming months. The next centre is due to open in Wester Hailes Library from 3 - 9 May and future locations will be publicised as soon as they're confirmed.”

Cammy Day, depute City Council leader, said: “Recent research has shown that asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic cases can contribute to more than 40% of Covid 19 transmission.

“It's quick and easy to get tested - these lateral flow swab tests don't need to be sent to a lab for analysis and the results are available within an hour.

Local resident Trish Lindsay takes a Covid test as Test Operative Ainhoa Lopez looks on. Photo: Greg Macvean Photography.

“We want as many local people as possible in the Craigmillar area to come forward for a test if they're not displaying symptoms of the virus, to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe.

“If we can keep case numbers low in the city as a whole, we'll all see the benefit as things begin to open up again in a Covid-safe way.

Trish Lindsay, who lives in the local area, was one of the first people to come forward for a test at the new ATC in Craigmillar Library.

She said: “I'd never thought about coming for an asymptomatic test before but, when the centre opened, I thought that I would come along for one.”

Further advice and information on what support is available for people who need to self isolate is available from nhsinform.scot/www.edinburgh.gov.uk

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