Covid-19 testing in Hightown and Caia Park

In response to news (see below) that local testing centres were being established in Caia Park and Hightown to carry out more Covid-19 testing, Caia Park councillor Carrie Harper said:

"There has been concern in the community about the rise in positive cases in Wrexham and specifically in the hospital. Today we've had confirmation that there are 60-70 cases in the Maelor and now testing is to be made easier in the Hightown and Caia Park area. 

"Presumably this is based on some evidence of cases in those localities and it would be useful to know if there is any intelligence identifying local clusters. 

"Given the concerns, it would be useful to know when this was identified and which organisation made the decision to open testing centres in specific areas."

Mobile testing units are being introduced this week to make it easier for people living in communities on the edge of Wrexham town centre to get a Covid-19 test.

The easy-access testing facilities will be based in Hightown and Caia Park for several days starting from Wednesday (July 29). As well as making it easier to get a test, the move will help public health experts get
a better understanding of the situation in Wrexham.

Residents living in these areas are being encouraged to get a test if they think they have symptoms…no matter how mild.

The work is being co-ordinated by Public Health Wales, Wrexham Council and other partners, with support from local voluntary sector organisation AVOW and community groups. Just like in other parts of the country, the testing stations will be managed by the army.

Even if you have mild symptoms, you should get a test.

However, if you feel really unwell, you should still contact your GP as normal (or call 999 if you think there’s something seriously wrong).
For example, don’t try to walk to a testing centre if you’re struggling to catch your breath.

Dr Chris Williams of Public Health Wales says:

“Providing easy-access testing will help us further understand the situation in Wrexham.
“We’re encouraging anyone who thinks they may have symptoms – even very mild ones – to take advantage of the mobile testing units while they’re in the area, and go and get a test.
“Testing is a really important part of the strategy for managing Covid-19 in Wales, so it’s important people step forward if they think they have symptoms.
“Covid-19 can spread in community settings, not just in workplaces.
“If you do test positive, you’ll be given advice by contact tracers at Wrexham Council.
“They’ll advise you on how long to isolate for and what support you can get to help you through the isolation period.
“They’ll also ask for your help in tracing people you’ve been in close contact with
recently.”

Where and when you can get a test
The mobile testing centres will be at Caia Park Health Centre on Prince Charles Road, and at a location in Hightown yet to be finalised, from Wednesday, July 29. You can just turn-up between 8am and 7pm. 

The location in Hightown is still to be confirmed.

Other ways to get a test
You can also apply for a test online or by phone. (https://gov.wales/apply-coronavirus-test )