Around 6,000 LFD tests distributed in the Borders every week

We are delighted to have extended our Lateral Flow Device (LFD) Covid-19 test collection sites across the Borders.

Thanks to partnership working with Live Borders, Scottish Borders Council and a number of privately owned businesses, we are now distributing around 6,000 individual LFD tests in the Borders each week.

Kits of seven LFD tests can now be collected from TriFitness in Galashiels, Heart of Hawick in Hawick and libraries in both of these towns as well as libraries in Peebles, Selkirk, Melrose and Eyemouth. Please be mindful that demand for LFD tests remains high and whilst stocks are regularly replenished you may be signposted to another collection venue or asked to come back later if a venue is waiting for a stock refill.

You can also continue to collect LFD kits at local pharmacies or arrange for home delivery of kits by ordering online or calling 119.

Head of Community Covid-19 Testing and Consultant in Public Health, Chris Allan, said: “We are grateful that so many local businesses and partners are helping to make LFD kits more accessible to the people of the Borders.

“Around one in three people with Covid-19 show no symptoms despite being able to pass the virus to others including those who are most vulnerable should they catch the virus. This is why it’s so important that we all proactively use LFD tests twice a week and before we plan to socialise with others or visit a loved one in hospital.

“Please help to limit the spread of Covid-19 and protect your colleagues, friends and family by taking advantage of LFD tests which are quick and easy to use. Remember that LFD tests are only suitable for people without Covid-19 symptoms. If you have symptoms, you must isolate and seek a PCR test via the NHS Inform website or by calling 119.”

If you run a local business or venue that be interested in becoming a LFD collect site please get in touch with our team via BOR.LFDCollect@borders.scot.nhs.uk or 01896 826370.