22 April 2021

Today the Mobile Testing Unit (MTU) which has been offering PCR (polymerase chain reaction) Covid-19 testing in Hawick will now rotate between Duns, Peebles and Hawick. This will enable us to provide greater accessibility to PCR Covid-19 testing within the Borders.

The testing facility will move to Duns from 22 April until 26 April, followed by Hawick on 27 & 28 April and then Peebles on 29 & 30 April.

The sites will be located at:

  • Southfield Community Centre, Station Road, Duns, TD11 3EL
  • Teviotdale Leisure Centre, 6 Mansfield Road, Hawick, TD9 8AG
  • Gytes Leisure Centre, Walkerhaugh, Peebles, EH45 8GL

PCR testing is specifically for those who:

  • have typical Covid-19 symptoms 
  • do not have symptoms but have been asked to take a PCR test by Test & Protect
  • have received a positive test result through Lateral Flow Device (LFD) testing and require this result to be confirmed

Director of Public Health Dr Tim Patterson said: “Testing is a key element in keeping Covid-19 cases as low as possible, especially as restrictions continue to ease. We want to make it easier for people across the Borders to access PCR testing when they need to which is why this testing facility will now move between multiple locations.

“If you are experiencing Covid-19 symptoms it is vital that you and your household self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test through the national system by visiting the GOV.UK website or calling 0800 028 2816.

“If you require a PCR test but are unable to make it along to the testing site please contact your Community Assistance Hub on 0300 100 1800 so that they can discuss options with you.

“Please remember that you must remain at home until you get the result of your test and then follow the advice you will be given based on the result. Even if you do receive a negative result, it is important that you continue to stick to the rules and follow the FACTS:

  • Face coverings in enclosed spaces
  • Avoid crowded places
  • Clean hands and surfaces regularly
  • Two metre distancing; and
  • Self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms”