Coronavirus testing near me: can I get tested for Covid-19 in Sheffield?

If you think you have symptoms of coronavirus and want to find out where you can get tested in the Sheffield area, here’s what you need to know.

Who can be tested?

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced that anyone with in the UK with symptoms of coronavirus can now be tested. Prior to this, testing was limited to anyone over the age of five and before this, testing in England and Scotland has previously been limited to people with symptoms who are key workers and their families, hospital patients, care home residents, over-65s and those who need to leave home to work.

In Northern Ireland and Wales, testing was just for key workers, hospital workers and care home residents.

However, Mr Hancock said that priority for testing would still be given to NHS staff and care home workers and residents, in order to "protect our most vulnerable".

When is testing most effective?

The test is only guaranteed to be accurate if someone is symptomatic.

The government advises that you should get tested in the first three days of coronavirus symptoms appearing, although testing is considered effective up until day five.

How do I arrange a test?

The NHS explains that, you can ask for a test:

for yourself, if you have coronavirus symptoms now (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste)

for someone you live with, if they have coronavirus symptoms

For further information, visit the NHS website or Gov.uk

What does the test involve?

The NHS notes, “The test usually involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and the back of your throat, using a long cotton bud.

You can do the swab yourself or someone can do it for you.”

Where are the test centres in Sheffield?

Owlerton Stadium has begun testing those with symptoms of the virus who are eligible to be tested. Results of the coronavirus tests should be issued within 72 hours.

To ensure social distancing guidelines are adhered to, upon arriving at the centre you must stay in your car.

Blood test service

Although not a coronavirus testing centre, Sheffield City Trust is working with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals to operate a drive-through blood test service in the FlyDSA Arena Sheffield car park.

At present, vulnerable patients are being asked to follow strict social distance guidelines to protect their wellbeing.

Entering hospitals for regular tests increases the likelihood of infection to those who are already at risk, therefore by setting up a drive-through blood testing service, patients can continue to receive their routine testing but in a safer environment.