We are currently seeing a rise in coronavirus cases in Torbay, if you have symptoms it is essential that you self-isolate and arrange to get tested.

The mobile testing unit at Torquay Coach Station in Lymington Road will be there until at least Monday 19 October.

Testing capacity is being scaled up nationally, but there will still be some delays as testing centres are all very busy while capacity is being increased. 

When to get a test

• If you have any symptoms of coronavirus
• If you have been asked to get tested by a medical professional (for example because you are going into hospital)

The symptoms of coronavirus are one or more of the following:

• a fever or high temperature
• a new, continuous cough
• a loss of or change to your sense of smell or taste.

This video shows how to tell the difference between cold and coronavirus symptoms and when to get a test.

You need to get the test done in the first 8 days of having symptoms.

• You can get tested at a site or at home. If you’re ordering a home test kit on day 7, do it by 3pm or it will be too late.

How to get a test

If you have symptoms please book a test as normal online or by calling 119. 

Book a coronavirus test False

• Do not call 111 which is an urgent care service and cannot help with tests.
• If you can’t get through to book a test, or you are offered a location which is not convenient, please wait a few hours and try again. 
• Temporary local arrangements have been put in place to try and help with delays. If you are unable to book a slot through the government website, please email d-ccg.cornwalldevon.urgenttesting@nhs.net and you should be contacted within 24 hours by someone who will try to arrange a test for you.

After you get your test result

Person testing positive

• If you test positive for Covid-19 you need to self-isolate for the full period advised by NHS Test and Trace. This is true even if you subsequently test negative during the isolation period.
• It is not recommended that anyone who tests positive for Covid-19 to takes another test unless they later develop new symptoms. So long as you have been symptom free for 48 hours you can return to work.

Contacts

• Anyone identified by NHS Test and Trace as a close contact of someone who has tested positive to Covid-19 needs to self-isolate for the full 14 day period advised by NHS Test and Trace. This is true even if they themselves test negative during their isolation period.
• Contacts of people who have tested positive for Covid-19 should only get tested if they themselves develop symptoms OR if they are advised to do so by a health professional.