Rapid coronavirus testing sites for people without symptoms of the virus is expected to be introduced across Hertfordshire in the new year.

The rapid ‘lateral flow’ tests are currently being accessed by people in Broxbourne, with a mobile testing unit travelling around the district over four days in December for people to get a free test.

It comes in response to the infection rates in the area, with the district by far seeing the highest rates in Hertfordshire.

The county council says further rapid testing - right across Hertfordshire – is expected to be available early in the new year, both at fixed sites and mobile testing units which will move around the county depending on where they are most needed.

The rapid tests are only for people who do not have Covid-19 symptoms, and results are given within 45 minutes, by email or text.

Tim Hutchings, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Prevention at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “It is absolutely vital that we all continue to play our part in protecting our local community and preventing the spread of coronavirus. Getting tested promptly, at the right time, is one of the most important ways we can do this.

“These tests, for those who are asymptomatic – that is, for people who do not have symptoms of coronavirus – will be critical in controlling and reducing the spread of the virus.

“Around one in every three people who are infected with Covid-19 have no symptoms and are likely to be spreading the virus without realising, so identifying these positive cases more quickly will be a huge step forward in reducing the number of cases in Broxbourne. The more we’re able to do that, the less pressure there will be on the NHS and we can start to move towards enjoying the types of lives we had before the pandemic.”

More information on opening times, dates and locations of further rapid testing sites will be released on the county council's website in the new year.

You can find out more here