A TARGETED Covid-19 testing programme is being introduced in Bolton to help prevent the spread of the virus by identifying people who are unaware they are infected.
Asymptomatic rapid testing will initially be offered to a targeted group of critical workers across the borough from Monday, January 18.
Health chiefs say this will help support vital health, social and community services to keep running safely.
Many people infected with Covid-19 suffer no symptoms but still risk passing it on to their colleagues, family, friends and members of the public.
As well as the obvious health risks, if the virus is allowed to spread quickly through a workplace it can seriously disrupt vital services.
The programme is targeted at those most at risk of catching the virus, including care workers and emergency services personnel.
With support from the Ministry of Defence, tests will be delivered at key sites in the borough with results available in as little as 30 minutes.
Testing will be by invitation only, and walk-in tests will not be available to members of the public.
Bolton council will contact the relevant employers to let them know their staff are eligible to take part.
Dr Helen Lowey, the borough’s director of public health, said: “Everyone has a part to play in keeping our community safe and helping Bolton beat this virus.
“This quick and simple test will be vital in helping us find those who may be unwittingly passing the virus on as they go about their work providing valuable frontline services.
“It is still essential to carry on with all the Covid safe measures for workplaces, testing is another tool to help to prevent the spread of the virus.”