This is how many rapid coronavirus tests have come back positive since new centre opened in Chesterfield

A community testing station opened at Queen’s Park Sports Centre on Boythorpe Road on February 11.

MORE: What it’s like getting a rapid coronavirus test at Chesterfield’s new community testing centre

Figures from Derbyshire County Council reveal that up to February 21, 1,561 tests had been carried out at the centre, which is aimed at people who do not have Covid-19 symptoms.

Of those tests, 21 came back positive.

Open from 9am to 7pm seven days a week, the site uses lateral flow devices which deliver results in around 30 minutes.

Dean Wallace, Derbyshire’s director of public health, said: “It’s great news that rates of infection are falling across Derbyshire, as they are nationally.

“However, the virus is still out there and we need to make sure we are breaking the chain of transmission, especially among people who are still going out to work and mixing with colleagues and the public.

“For peace of mind, I’d urge anyone without symptoms to get tested regularly to make sure they aren’t unwittingly passing the virus on to colleagues, family or friends.

“Let’s do this for Derbyshire so that we can all get back to doing the things we love more quickly.”

Experts say one in three people who have Covid-19 do not have symptoms and could be infecting other people without realising.

Community testing stations like the one in Chesterfield are designed to identify those with the virus and offer advice about financial support they may be entitled to if they need to self-isolate.

There are currently six community testing stations in Derbyshire – with two more set to open in the Derbyshire Dales and Erewash this week.

Councillor Barry Lewis, council leader, said: “Getting a test doesn’t mean you can’t still catch the virus, so please continue to wash your hands regularly, keep your distance and wear a face covering unless you are exempt."

There is no need to book an appointment at a community testing centre – just call in. People can check waiting times before they visit.

People with coronavirus symptoms are urged not to visit the community testing centres.

Anyone with symptoms – a new, continuous cough, a high temperature or change to taste or smell – should ring NHS 119 or book a test online.

For more information about community testing, visit https://www.derbyshire.gov.uk/social-health/health-and-wellbeing/health-protection/disease-control/coronavirus/community-testing/community-testing-for-covid-19.aspx.

MORE: ‘The light at the end of the tunnel is becoming brighter’: Chesterfield firms optimistic as Boris Johnson unveils lockdown easing

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