Public given access to asymptomatic Covid-19 testing centre in Aberdeen

An asymptomatic coronavirus testing centre in Aberdeen is being opened up for use by the public.

So far, only key workers and students have been able to use the facility at Aberdeen University's Butchart Centre on University Road.

But as of tomorrow (Monday March 8) anyone in the city can book an appointment using the online portal here.

Health experts believe about one in three people with Covid-19 do not show any symptoms and may spread the virus without realising.

Jillian Evans, NHS Grampian's head of health intelligence, said: "Community testing is voluntary but we hope that providing easy access to tests for any member of the public as well as key workers without symptoms, will encourage people to come forward. 

"This will help us identify cases that would otherwise be missed and, whilst it will increase the number of positive cases reported in Aberdeen, is an important expansion of our testing programme that will help us understand and suppress the virus."

The test results will usually be made available within 90 minutes. Anyone who tests positive will be asked to confirm their result using a PCR test, which is more reliable.

Debbie Dyker, director of people at the university, said: "We are delighted to be supporting the city’s response to managing the pandemic.

"Our testing centre has supported the testing of our students to enable them to travel home safely to family prior to Christmas, and also supported those students that have been required to return to university this term in a safe manner.  

"By getting tested not just once but regularly, key workers and others will be doing what they can to keep our community safe."