A new community testing centre has been opened in Maldon for residents who do not have any symptoms of Covid-19.

From today (Tuesday, 19 January) the new fast testing centre has opened at West Maldon Community Centre in Sunbury Way, Maldon. The postcode is CM9 6YH.

These fast-testing centres are among the first of their kind in the region, offering new and fast lateral flow tests to the wider population. The tests are ONLY for people for who DO NOT have symptoms and give results in around 30 minutes.

Tests are by appointment only and bookings should be made online. Residents should live in the Maldon district and can book a test via the link here.

Booking online should be the quickest and most effective option for residents seeking a lateral flow test. If anyone is not able to book using the online form, they can call 0333 772 6144 to arrange an appointment. Lines are open from 8am to 8pm, every day including Saturday and Sunday.

Residents can also email to book via the link here and a member of staff will get in contact to arrange an appointment.

Anyone WITH symptoms should book a test via the NHS Test and Trace App via the link here.

Background to setting up the new testing centre

Dr Mike Gogarty, Essex's Director of Public Health and Wellbeing, said: " Even though there has been a slight decrease in the infection rate in Maldon, we must not be complacent as the numbers are still extremely concerning.

"Local NHS services are coming under significant strain as a result of the new variant of Covid-19. A 'critical incident' has been declared across the county, with critical care and bed capacity rising as well as high staff sickness and self-isolation levels.

"This additional testing centre will allow us to test even more people in the worst affected areas where we continue to see worryingly high rates. Thousands of people have already been tested at the fast testing centres we have opened.

"Testing people who feel well will help to identify the hidden cases in the community – people who may be unwittingly infecting others. If you test positive following one of the new fast tests, you will be asked to self-isolate, and take a further test to confirm the initial result. If positive, you will also be required to disclose any close contacts to the local or national contact tracing service.

"It is absolutely vital that in addition to these efforts, everyone continues to adhere to the appropriate Covid-19 guidance. This includes working from home wherever possible and socially distancing, particularly in indoor settings that are permitted to remain open, such as essential shops and supermarkets. Behave as if those around you have Covid-19 and maintain a two-metre distance from anyone outside of your household or support bubble at all times."

Councillor Wendy Stamp, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: "Identifying people without symptoms who have the virus, and getting them to self-isolate, is extremely important, so that we can control the spread of the pandemic.

"Rapid testing will now be the focus in the district and crucial in reducing the rate of infection. I would really encourage people to book one of these rapid tests and help stop the spread of the virus."