New mobile coronavirus testing unit opens in Lochgelly

NHS Fife has announced a new mobile coronavirus testing unit for Lochgelly.

The health board says there has been a "sharp rise" in Covid-19 cases in central Fife.

Situated at Lochgelly Centre car park, the new test site is open from today.

Its opening hours are Monday to Friday between 9am and 3.30pm and 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.

There has been a rise in cases of the virus in Lochgelly, Cowdenbeath and Kelty in recent days.

NHS Fife also says that a number of positive cases locally are linked to Shardy's Bar in Lochgelly.

Anyone who visited the bar after a funeral in the town last Thursday (24 June) is being strongly urged to get a PCR test at a local test site as soon as possible.

Signs and symptoms of coronavirus include a new, continuous cough, fever or a loss or change in the sense of smell or taste.

Anyone who develops symptoms is being advised to self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test.

For those who need to self-isolate, welfare support is available such as financial support, food and medication delivery and help with some caring responsibilities.

More information is available on Fife Council's website.

Dr Duncan Fortescue-Webb, a consultant in public health medicine, said: "There has been a concerning increase in Covid-19 infections in parts of central Fife over recent days.

"Several cases are linked to Shardy's Bar in Lochgelly and we strongly urge anyone who visited the bar on the evening of Thursday 24 June 2021 to visit the new mobile testing site at the Lochgelly Centre for a PCR test, whether they have symptoms or not.

"Around one in three people who become infected with Covid-19 may not feel unwell, but can still spread the virus without knowing it.

"Testing and, if needed, rapid self-isolation are vital to prevent transmission of the virus, and to protect friends, loved ones and the wider community."