North West London Latest Corona Virus Update Posted or Updated on 25 May 2022

Key public messages

Issues with accessing coronavirus testing

There is a national issue with testing due to lab capacity to process tests. This means that there is currently a limit on the amount of tests taking place at all testing sites and with home testing as well. We therefore need to prioritise those who need tests, only people with Covid-19 symptoms (fever, new cough, loss or change in taste/smell) should be booking a test.

We are aware that many people have been unable to get an appointment. If you cannot access a test, please continue to try to book a test online or by calling 119, and continue to isolate in the meantime. This is important to reduce the spread of infection. You will not receive a test without a booking, please do not turn up to a test site without a booking.Remember, people with Covid-19 symptoms (fever, new cough, loss or change in taste/smell) should be isolating at home and should only leave the house to access testing. They should wear a face covering, and drive or walk to the site and must not use public transport/taxi.

If you are isolating at home with symptoms or a positive test, there is support available on how to manage symptoms.

Covid-19

Confirmed cases of Covid-19 are rising in all boroughs in NW London - protect your family, friends and neighbours.

• In the past few weeks the number of confirmed coronavirus cases has gone up and has now become very concerning. We need to take action now to protect our loved ones and our community.
• To address the rise in confirmed cases across the country, the Government has made gatherings of more than six people illegal from Monday 14 September 2020. The law change bans larger groups from meeting anywhere socially indoors or outdoors and is enforced through a £100 fine for anyone failing to comply.
• You are most at risk when in busy crowds, confined spaces or close contact with others.
• Therefore we all need to follow this new law, and take extra care, as how we behave is currently the only way to limit the spread of the virus.

You’re safest when you follow this advice:

Wash your hands frequently, with soap and water, for 20 seconds.

Remember to ‘social distance’ when in public areas – keep at least 2 metres away from people you don’t live with, if you can.

Wear a face covering on public transport, in shops and in supermarkets.

If you have any symptoms of coronavirus (a new continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss of/change in taste or smell) please immediately self-isolate and book a free test online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.