Surge testing to be deployed in Ruislip

Working in partnership with Hillingdon Council, NHS Test and Trace is providing additional testing and genomic sequencing in targeted areas within the HA4 postcode in Ruislip, Hillingdon. This follows the identification of a single case of the variant first discovered in South Africa (B.1.351) in Ruislip. The confirmed case has completed self-isolation and their contacts have been identified.

Everybody aged 16 years and over who resides or works in these postcodes is strongly encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

Enhanced contact tracing will be used for individuals testing positive with a variant of concern. In these instances, contact tracers will look back over an extended period in order to determine the route of transmission.

By using PCR testing, positive results can be sent for genomic sequencing at specialist laboratories, helping us to identify variant of concern cases and their spread.

Between Monday 10 and Sunday 23 May, Hillingdon Council will be offering additional PCR testing for people without symptoms living or working in the targeted area. This testing will be available at South Ruislip Young People’s Centre, Victoria Road, HA4 0JE or Haste Hill Golf Course, The Drive, Northwood, HA6 1HN daily between 8am and 8pm. Attendees are required to book an appointment in advance on the local authority website.

People in this area should also continue using twice-weekly rapid testing alongside the PCR test as part of surge testing.

People with symptoms should continue to book a free test online or by phone so they can get tested at a testing site or have a testing kit sent to them at home.