AN area in Bracknell has been identified for surge coronavirus testing after cases of the Indian variant have risen. 

A statement published by the Bracknell Forest Council today (Friday, June 11) revealed surge testing will start in the GU47 0 postcode area of Bracknell Forest to help try and reduce the spread of the Delta variant locally.  

Residents will have to start getting tested from Wednesday, June 16.

The surge testing will also apply to staff and pupils at all the borough’s secondary schools as well as staff at all primary schools.

READ MORE: Cases of Indian variant in Bracknell up almost 1500% in one week

Primary school children do not need to take part unless they attend Binfield CE Primary School where case numbers have been rising. 

The council is urging residents over the age of 11 (Year 7) who are living or working in the GU47 0 postcode area to come forward for a COVID-19 PCR test from 16 June, provided they are not showing symptoms. 

This includes people who have had the vaccine as well as those who are doing regular lateral flow testing. If you have had a positive PCR test in the past 90 days, you do not need to come forward for testing. 

The GU47 0 postcode was prioritised for surge testing based on high infection rate but low vaccine uptake. Low vaccine coverage further increases the risk of transmission and serious disease.  

How to get a test 

Residents in these areas can get a COVID-19 test at one of the dedicated testing sites – there is no need to book and all information on where sites are located is available at: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/surge-testing 

ALSO READ: Bracknell areas registering the highest number of new Covid cases

Schools across Bracknell Forest will be contacted by the council to arrange delivery of testing kits for pupils and staff 

Businesses in GU47 0 will be contacted by the council to arrange delivery of testing kits for staff 

If you have coronavirus symptoms or have had a positive lateral flow test you should continue to book a test at GOV.UK, via the NHS COVID-19 app or by calling 119. 

Charlotte Pavitt, Consultant in Public Health for Bracknell Forest Council, said: “We have been monitoring the situation very closely and now need residents in these areas to come forward for a test. You should do this even if you’ve had the COVID-19 vaccine as you can still catch and spread the virus. Infection rates are rising across the borough and this variant is much more transmissible. The more cases we find, the better chance we have at suppressing it.  

“Please help to keep your community and loved ones safe by getting tested. You should also continue to follow the guidance that is in place – limit your number of contacts, wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, keep your distance and cover your face. If you test positive by any method, you must isolate to stop the spread of the virus. If you have been in close contact with someone who tests positive you must also self-isolate.” 

Dr Rohail Malik, PNC CD and Practice Partner said: “We know that there is an increase in the number of coronavirus cases in our local community. To make it as easy as possible for those eligible to get their COVID-19 vaccination we are setting up a walk-in vaccination service.  

“Millions of people are already benefiting from protection from the virus by taking two doses of the vaccine and we have seen this contribute to dramatic falls in infections, hospitalisations and deaths.  

  “I would personally like to encourage those who live and work in the GU47 0 postcode area, who are eligible and haven’t had their first dose of the vaccine, to please just walk-in and get their Pfizer jab.”         

More information on surge testing in Bracknell Forest can be found at: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/surge-testing.