If you don’t have coronavirus symptoms but you want to get an answer within the hour, there are four places in Lincolnshire where you can get rapid COVID tests — for free.
Why should I get tested if I don’t have any symptoms?
We can break the chain of infection by detecting and self isolating people in the community who have COVID-19 but do not show any symptoms, which means otherwise they could go on and unknowingly infect others unless isolating.
The testing centre at St Swithin’s, off Croft Street in Lincoln. | Photo: Stuart Wilde for CoLC
You do not need to book an appointment to get an asymptomatic test at any of the four centres. You can just turn up between 8am and 8pm, Monday to Sunday.
Upon arrival, staff will double-check with you if you have any COVID symptoms, such as fever, persistent cough, or loss of smell and/or taste.
Checking in to receive a COVID-19 test. | Photo: Stuart Wilde for CoLC
Once inside, staff will explain how to fill in on your phone a form after you scan a barcode unique to your test.
They also have iPads available for those without smartphones and/or internet access.
The form takes up to five minutes to fill in, and then you’re directed to a testing bay.
You have to blow your nose before you take the swab test. | Photo: Stuart Wilde for CoLC
Staff explain how to swab your throat and nose. | Photo: Stuart Wilde for CoLC
Staff there will guide you through swabbing your throat and nose. You then put the swab away and off you go!
Then, within the hour you’ll get a text and email with your test results. That’s it!
All the rapid testing centres are run by the City of Lincoln Council and Boston Borough Council respectively. They are expected to remain operational until the end of February 2021, and likely throughout March too.
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Exciting news for MyLocal app users and The Lincolnite readers! Our latest update is now available to download from your app store and comes packed with the best local news experience you can enjoy.
Revamped News Feed: Enjoy faster loading times and smoother scrolling that make catching up on local news a breeze.
New Play Video Feed: Dive into a dynamic video feed that brings local stories to life in a whole new way.
Enhanced In-App Browser: Access external links quickly and efficiently, right from the app, without any distractions.
Update your MyLocal app from your app store (version 2.73) now and start enjoying these great new features today!
P.S.: Start your MyLocal membership today to support MyLocal and The Lincolnite deliver you a better local news experience and honest journalism from across Lincolnshire.
P.P.S.: We have some huge things in the pipeline, stay tuned!