Home   News   Article

New rapid Covid-19 test centre opens in Highland capital – we put it to the test


By Andrew Dixon

Easier access to your trusted, local news. Subscribe to a digital package and support local news publishing.



Click here to sign up to our free newsletters!
The testing team with 39 Engineer Regiment. Picture: Gary Anthony
The testing team with 39 Engineer Regiment. Picture: Gary Anthony

People were arriving for rapid Covid-19 tests in Inverness this week in the latest move to combat the spread of coronavirus.

A new mobile testing unit opened for people without symptoms to check if they have the virus and could be unknowingly passing it on.

It is based at Highland Council headquarters car park – opposite the existing test site for people with symptoms.

NHS Highland’s director of public health, Dr Tim Allison, said: “Many people who have coronavirus have no symptoms, or mild symptoms, and will be spreading it without realising. By expanding community testing we will be able to identify more cases giving us a better chance of stopping Covid-19 from spreading.”

The testing unit will be available on Saturday and then from Monday to Friday next week and no appointment is necessary.

The test uses a lateral flow device which is easy to administer and results do not take long. Results will be sent by text or email.

A similar mobile testing unit has been based in Merkinch for the last two weeks following a spike in Covid-19 cases.

Ross-shire Journal reporter Federica Stefani was among the first to have a test at the new centre and describes her experience:

"Having dodged Covid testing since the start of the pandemic, I gad mixed feelings entering the council car park.

"But any anxiety didn't have time to kick in properly because everything was over in less than 10 minutes.

"Registration probably took the longest, but the staff at the entrance desk were extremely helpful and going through the various steps on my phone was straightforward.

Courier reporter Federica Stefani registering to get her test, with help from LCpl Law of 39 Engineer Regiment.
Courier reporter Federica Stefani registering to get her test, with help from LCpl Law of 39 Engineer Regiment.

"The test consists of a flexible stick which you put into your throat and touch both sides, then rub it on the inside of one nostril.

"The swab process may not be the most pleasant of experiences, but for me it was compensated for by the sense of relief when a negative result arrived about 40 minutes later via text message and an email.

"Although I know I was negative then and there, I know that I still might catch Covid if I don't stick to advice. It is always better to be careful than careless."

Latest coronavirus crisis news from Ross-shire and the Highlands


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More