Lambeth council is expanding its Covid PCR testing operations to Brixton and Stockwell as a precautionary measure after a rise in local infection rates.
Some cases of the Covid-19 variant first identified in India have been detected in the borough.
People living, working or studying in the Brixton and Stockwell areas are encouraged to have a Covid-19 PCR test.
PCR tests can identify variants of Covid and are sent to a lab to be checked
Rapid lateral flow tests are for people who do not have symptoms. They give a result in 30 minutes.
Both tests are free.
PCR testing sites are open from today (May 27) for 10 days in Windrush Square and from tomorrow (May 28) at Stockwell Memorial Gardens. Both sites will be open from 9am to 3pm.
The move follows case data showing the incidence rate in Lambeth has increased in recent weeks from around 10 cases a day, to between 20 and 30 new infections being detected each day.
Ruth Hutt, Lambeth council’s director of public health said: “We have seen a relatively small rise in case numbers, and this introduction of extra PCR Covid-19 testing has been introduced so we can monitor infection levels on the ground.
“We know there are some local cases linked to the variant first identified in India.
“So introducing this extra PCR testing as a precautionary measure will allow us to find out if the variant of concern has spread elsewhere.”
The extra testing follows similar measures put in place in Clapham on May 22.
Testing there, in Windmill Drive, will continue until q June.
For more information visit lambeth.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.
A comprehensive package of self-isolation support is available for anyone required to self-isolate.
Information on Lambeth council’s enhanced offer is available at lambeth.gov.uk/self-isolate-help or by calling 0800 054 1215.
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from Covid-19 and two doses provide the best protection, including against new variants of the virus.
Ruth Hutt said: “Please ensure that, if you are eligible for vaccination, you take the opportunity.
“If you have questions about the vaccination please speak to your GP or other health professionals to get the information you need.”
For further up-to-date information on the Covid-19 vaccine, including answers to frequently asked questions, please visit selondonccg.nhs.uk.
