A MOBILE Covid-19 testing centre has been set up in Alloa today.

The centre has been set up at the car park behind Alloa Town Hall after an increasing number of people in the area have tested positive for coronavirus.

Dr Graham Foster, director of public health at NHS Forth Valley, said: “We have seen an increase in the number of positive cases across Clackmannanshire over the last few weeks and evidence of spread within local communities.

“I would therefore like to encourage local people to get tested even if they currently feel well as there is evidence that some people can have Covid-19 without displaying any of the common symptoms.” 

The mobile testing centre will remain in place until Wednesday, December 9.

Anyone who lives or works in Alloa can arrange to get tested, whether they have symptoms or not.

People are being asked not to turn up at the testing centre without booking an appointment to help avoid overcrowding.

Council leader Councillor Ellen Forson said: “As the first minister said in parliament earlier this week, case levels in Clackmannanshire are causing some concern and are being closely monitored.

“Both myself and the council’s chief executive remain in close contact with the Scottish Government and public health officials to ensure that we all have a full understanding of the latest situation in Clackmannanshire.

“I was very keen that a mobile testing unit come to Alloa as it is another way we can stop the spread of this virus.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in supporting our request.

“I urge as many people are possible to book a test.”

People can book a test by visiting https://self-referral.test-for-coronavirus.service.gov.uk/antigen/condition or by calling 0300 303 2713.

Anyone booking online who does not have any symptoms should select the option ‘My local council or health protection team has asked me (or someone I live with) to get a test, even though I do not have symptoms’.

Appointments will only be released each evening for the following morning and in the morning for appointments that afternoon.