Mobile test units to continue operating in East Lothian

Members of the public who have no symptoms associated with Covid-19, but who may be infectious and spreading the disease without knowing it, are invited to visit for a test. People are welcome to attend on a walk-in basis although there is the option to book a test in advance.

The units, which are being provided by the Scottish Government and staffed by the Scottish Ambulance Service, will now be operating in Dunbar, Tranent, Port Seton and Whitecraig.

The locations have been identified on a targeted basis in co-operation with public health colleagues, using the most up-to-date data looking at virus prevalence.

It's possible for people who have been tested to return for a further test at a later date, in order to check that they have not become infectious.

Sharon Saunders, Head of Communities, East Lothian Council, said:

“Mobile test units have been deployed into four East Lothian communities during March. We’re grateful to everyone who has visited one of the units to get tested.

“We welcome the fact that progress continues to be made in curbing COVID-19. However, the virus does still present a significant risk to public health and the last thing we want to do is undermine this progress.

“The vaccination programme and testing are key parts of the national strategy for returning to a less restrictive way of life.

“Mobile test units will continue to operate in East Lothian into April – this time in Dunbar, Tranent, Port Seton and Whitecraig. We would encourage as many people as possible to attend.

If you’ve already been tested, you can return to take another test to check if you’ve picked up the virus.

“Visiting a local asymptomatic testing facility means you can help your community, families and friends stay safe and slow down the spread of this devastating virus.

“Support will be available for anyone who tests positive for the virus.”

Q&A

Where can I get tested if I’ve no symptoms?

The mobile testing units will be available from 10am to 6pm at:

1, 2 & 3 April

• Dunbar Leisure Pool
• Loch Centre, Tranent

4, 5 & 6 April

• Port Seton Centre
• The Mercat Bar & Grill, Whitecraig

7, 8 & 9 April

• Dunbar Leisure Pool
• Loch Centre, Tranent

10, 11 & 12 April

• Port Seton Centre
• The Mercat Bar & Grill, Whitecraig

13, 14 & 15 April

• Dunbar Leisure Pool
• Loch Centre, Tranent

16, 17 & 18 April

• Port Seton Centre
• The Mercat Bar & Grill, Whitecraig

19, 20 & 21 April

• Dunbar Leisure Pool
• Loch Centre, Tranent

22, 23 & 24 April

• Port Seton Centre
• The Mercat Bar & Grill, Whitecraig

Walk-in appointments are available on the day.

You can also make a booking before attending the mobile testing unit for your community. Bookings can be made from 6pm on the day before you are looking to take a test. This can be done by completing the ‘get a free test online.' When asked why you are booking a test, select the option ‘my local council or health protection team has asked me to get a test, even though I do not have symptoms’.

You need to live in the local area where the mobile testing unit is operating. Please arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before the start of your appointment.

What is asymptomatic COVID-19 testing?

This is testing for people who have no Covid-19 symptoms but who could still be infectious and spreading the virus without knowing it.

Why should you get tested?

Almost 1 in 3 people who have Covid-19 don’t have any of the usual symptoms but are potentially passing the virus on to loved ones, friends and others in the community.

By getting tested you can find out if you are positive, and take immediate action to stop the spread of the virus to others, by self-isolating.

Should I attend one of these sites if I have symptoms of COVID-19?

No, the mobile/community testing sites are only for people without symptoms and a different type of test should be taken. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms should book a test via nhsinform.scot or by calling 0300 303 2713.

What happens at the test?

The mobile units will be safe and secure and follow the strictest hygiene and cleaning guidelines. Staff will support and guide you throughout your visit.

When you attend a site please ensure that you are wearing a face covering and continue to follow physical distancing guidance.

Please also dress appropriately for the weather, during popular times you may have to wait to be tested.

What happens if I test positive and need to isolate?

The best way to stop Covid-19 is for those who are infected to stay away from everyone else, by self-isolating. We understand how difficult it can be to self-isolate and we want to help you, as much as we can, to do this as.

Practical, confidential support is available within the testing facility, to support you and your household, if you test positive and need to self-isolate. We can give you advice on different financial help which is available and help you to access it.

Don't let the worry of having to self-isolate stop you from getting tested. We're here to help where we can.

If you have symptoms of COVID make an appointment through the NHS Inform website:

Self-help guide: Access to testing for coronavirus | NHS inform

Or telephone: 0300 303 2713

The phone line is available between 7 am and 11 pm Mon - Sunday

If you have tested positive for COVID, you must self isolate.

If you need general advice (not Health advice), advice on self-isolation support grants, assistance with food or assistance with fuel poverty either:

• Access the Council webpages:  Coronavirus/COVID-19 | East Lothian Council
• Email: publicinformation@eastlothian.gov.uk
• Phone our helpline: 01875 824300

Other helpful telephone numbers:

• East Lothian Council               01620 827827
• 24 hour emergency line          01875 612818
• Emergency Social Work          0800 731 6969

What happens if I test negative?

You don’t have to take any action other than continuing to follow all national guidance including following current ‘stay at home’ restrictions and physical distancing. Although you may not have the virus at this time, it is still circulating and there is a risk of catching it.

You can return to the local mobile testing unit for a further test.