No-symptom Covid tests for critical and non-home workers to start in Hampshire: How to book, who is eligible and when are they available from in Portsmouth, Basingstoke, East Hampshire, Eastleigh, Fareham, Hart, Havant, Rushmoor, Gosport, Test Valley and New Forest

Lateral flow tests will be available at centres across Hampshire and in Portsmouth from Monday, February 22.

They are limited to people who are classed as a critical worker or unable to work from home.

Here is all you need to know:

When are rapid tests starting?

The site in Portsmouth and those across the rest of Hampshire will begin offering tests from the week commencing February 22.

They will be available seven days a week from 8am to 8pm.

Who can get a test?

You can book an asymptomatic Covid-19 test if you are:

- over 16 years of age

- classed as a critical worker or unable to work from home

- not displaying symptoms of Covid-19

Do not attend your booking if you start displaying symptoms or have been told to isolate by Track and Trace.

How do you book a test?

Tests can be booked via Hampshire County Council’s website here and you can visit Portsmouth City Council’s website for more information.

You will be able to book online 24 hours in advance and up to 5pm the day before.

SEE ALSO: Here are potential Covid-19 testing centres that could be set up in Hampshire

Where do you go to take the test?

- Portsmouth – Guildhall

- Havant – Havant Library

- Fareham – Fareham College

- Gosport – Thorngate Hall Community Centre

- Winchester – Winchester Discovery Centre- East Hants – Alton Sports Centre

- Eastleigh – The Point

- Hart – Hart District Council Offices

- Basingstoke and Deane – South Ham Library

- New Forest – Totton Health & Leisure Centre

- Rushmoor – Farnborough Leisure Centre

- Test Valley – Picket Twenty Sports Ground

How does rapid asymptomatic testing work?

- You will be asked not to eat anything for 30 minutes prior to your test.

- You will take a lateral flow test, which involves a self-administered swab of the nose and throat, under the guidance of trained staff.

- Results will be confirmed after leaving the testing site by text message sent to your mobile (or to a nominated mobile phone belonging to a family member or friend, if you do not have your own).

- You will be invited to return for testing every three to five days throughout the six-week programme.

- Anyone receiving a positive result will need to follow self-isolation guidance, but will not need to book a follow-up test.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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