Peterborough residents told to continue to self isolate if they have COVID symptoms and can’t get a test as demand increases

People with symptoms in Peterborough have been told they could have to travel as far as Aberdeen to get a test as demand across the city - and the country - increases.

Public health chiefs in the city are now urging residents only to try and book a test if they are showing symptoms - and to keep trying to book a test appointment.

Residents are no longer able to have a ‘walk in’ test, and appointments have to be booked in advance as a result of the increase in demand.

A Peterborough City Council spokeswoman said: “The National Testing Programme is currently experiencing exceptionally high demand and as a result we know that some people may be struggling to access the time and location that they want.

“If you’ve tried to book a test for coronavirus and you’ve not been able to, or you’ve been offered a location or time that’s not convenient, our advice is to wait a few hours and try again. Booking slots are made available the evening before for morning appointments, and on the morning for afternoon appointments. Alternatively, people can call 119.

“If you have symptoms of coronavirus, please don’t give up when trying to book a test - keep trying and continue to self-isolate for the full 14 days if you are unable to get a test.

“If you don’t have symptoms of coronavirus - a fever, new continuous cough or a loss or change in your sense of taste or smell - and have no cause to suspect you have been in a situation that has increase your risk of infection, please don’t book a test. By doing so, you might be denying someone who genuinely needs it.”