In light of rising COVID-19 infection rates in Bristol, the local authority has added new ways for residents to access asymptomatic community testing.

This weekend, a new walk-in PCR testing site has opened at Bristol Harbour, Hanover Quay, for people who do not have symptoms of COVID-19, in particular young people visiting or meeting with friends in the area, local hospitality and leisure staff and nearby residents.

Director for Communities and Public Health, Christina Gray said: “We are once again at a critical point in the pandemic, with the number of infections per 100,000 of the population back up at over 100, from less than 20 just four weeks ago. This rate is rising sharply every day, and we’re seeing people unwell with COVID-19 in our hospitals again, putting additional pressure on our NHS. After the last eighteen months of hard work and sacrifice we’ve all given, this is the last thing we want to see for Bristol.

“A high number of cases are in our under 30 age group, so we’ve opened up a new asymptomatic PCR testing unit in the centre of the city where people are outside enjoying the nice weather and meeting with friends in our pubs and bars. We have a young, vibrant population in Bristol, many of whom are still yet to receive both doses of their vaccination.

“Our aim is to encourage as many people in that group to come and get a PCR test even if they don’t have symptoms; the tests are sensitive to picking up infection and will help to keep people safe as the vaccination programme continues to pick up pace. One in three people carrying the virus do not display symptoms and we need to find these cases so that people can isolate and stop the spread.

“I know it’s tiring to keep hearing the same messages over and over again, but a few small actions really do make a difference. Please keep washing your hands, covering your face where necessary and giving others space. Keep taking your regular lateral flow (rapid) tests twice a week. If you’re 18 and over, please book in your vaccination.”

Lateral flow (rapid) tests are available to everyone in Bristol through local pharmacies, collection sites in the city and by ordering packs online at GOV.uk.

The local authority is now providing packs of lateral flow (rapid) tests at some sports venues and leisure centres in the city, making it even easier for people to pick up tests on the go.

Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health, Cllr Asher Craig said: “Asymptomatic testing is so important in helping our Public Health teams identify infection and enable people to safely self-isolate and cut off chains of transmission. This new site in the beating heart of our city centre will provide more easy avenues for our young people to get tested and keep Bristol safe.

“I know many of our younger population are desperate to book in their vaccination and new appointments are being put on the system every day. While you’re waiting for your jab, I encourage you to make use of these new sites in the city, and to please continue taking your lateral flow (rapid) tests twice a week. Many of the cases we’re seeing in Bristol at the moment are being picked up through lateral flow (rapid) tests.

“Please get tested and help to keep Bristol safe.”

To find out where to access lateral flow (rapid) tests near you, visit the local authority’s rapid testing guide.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test on GOV.uk or by calling 119.

Support is on offer through the We Are Bristol helpline for anyone who needs emergency assistance getting food, medicines or guidance about financial support to self-isolate. Call 0800 694 0184 for free if you need help.