A CORONAVIRUS mobile testing unit (MTU) in the Borders will now rotate between three towns, the region’s health board has confirmed.

NHS Borders has been offering polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 tests via an MTU in Hawick at the Teviotdale Leisure Centre.

However, the health board has announced that the MTU will now rotate between Hawick, Peebles and Duns.

NHS Borders’ director of Public Health, Tim Patterson, said: “Testing is a key element in keeping COVID-19 cases as low as possible, especially as restrictions continue to ease.

“We want to make it easier for people across the Borders to access PCR testing when they need to which is why this testing facility will now move between multiple locations.”

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The MTU will be located at Southfield Community Centre, Station Road, Duns (TD11 3EL); Teviotdale Leisure Centre, Mansfield Road, Hawick (TD9 8AG); and Gytes Leisure Centre, Walkerhaugh, Peebles (EH45 8GL).

The testing facility moved to Duns on Thursday, April 22 and will remain there until Monday (April 26).

It will then be back in Hawick on April 27 and 28 before moving to Peebles on April 29 and 30.

Dr Patterson said: “If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms it is vital that you and your household self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test through the national system by visiting the GOV.UK website or calling 0800 028 2816.

“If you require a PCR test but are unable to make it along to the testing site please contact your Community Assistance Hub on 0300 100 1800 so that they can discuss options with you.

“Please remember that you must remain at home until you get the result of your test and then follow the advice you will be given based on the result.

“Even if you do receive a negative result, it is important that you continue to stick to the rules and follow the FACTS.”

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NHS Borders says PCR testing is for anyone who:

  • has typical COVID-19 symptoms
  • does not have symptoms but has been asked to take a PCR test by Test & Protect
  • has received a positive test result through Lateral Flow Device (LFD) testing and requires this result to be confirmed

When attending one of the MTU sites, wear a face mask/covering and bring your mobile phone so that you can register to receive your result by text.

If you do not have a mobile, alternative arrangements will be made.