Following an increase in local Coronavirus cases in Ross-on-Wye, a new mobile Covid-19 testing centre opened today (Wednesday 28 October) at the Larruperz Centre, Grammar School Close in Ross and will mean local residents needing a test don’t have to travel to Hereford or outside the county to get it. Please note you must have a confirmed appointment before attending the centre.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 – a high temperature, persistent cough, loss or change in sense of taste or smell – should immediately book a test by ringing NHS 119 or visiting www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test. You should also self-isolate – ie you must not leave your home – while waiting for your test and until you have the result. Anyone who cannot get to a test centre can order a home test kit.

The panel on the Ross-on-Wye Community Development Trust’s live Facebook event last week – “Keeping Ross-on-Wye Safe”, which has now received 2.9k views – provided some very practical and sensible advice. Dr Simon Lennane and Dr Sarah Aitken gave very clear messages to ensure the town avoids a full lockdown in the run up to Christmas:

Face coverings, distancing and handwashing:  vitally important to stop the spread and keep our town functioning safely;

Isolation: absolutely imperative if you have been asked to do so or if you have been in contact with anyone with symptoms (including within your household) – this is how we break the chains of transmission;

Know the symptoms: which are a high fever, loss of sense of taste and smell and a persistent cough – you can also be very infectious but appear to be well which is why the guidelines need to be followed. Keep your guard up at all times!

Diet & exercise: this is key to staying well – the fitter you are the better chance you have of overcoming the virus – now is the time to look after yourself both physically and mentally and to keep your immune system in good shape.

Seasonal flu jabs: if you need one, it is important to get immunised as soon as possible so get in touch with your GP to register to receive your jabs and protect yourself.  

For more information about the Ross-on-Wye Community Development Trust and to receive latest updates in your news feed, including information on future live Facebook events, please ‘like’ our Facebook page – www.facebook.com/rosscdt and follow us on Twitter @Ross_CDT.