Community surge testing for Covid-19 took place from 1 to 14 March. This was to:

• help us learn more about the mutated Covid-19 variant in South Gloucestershire and Bristol
• reduce the spread of infection by finding cases where people had no symptoms, so that they could self-isolate

Unused and unreturned tests 

If you have a test kit that you have not used or returned after 16 March put it in your black bin as non recyclable waste. 

If the test kit has been opened, repack it into its box before putting it in the bin. 

Do not  break the pack down and sort it into recyclables. 

Getting your test result

It can take up to three days to get your test result, this will be sent by text or email from NHS Test and Trace. 

You do not need to self-isolate while you wait for your test result; you can still go out to work if you cannot work from home or to buy essential food but you must follow the current national lockdown guidance. 

If your test is positive

If you receive a positive test result from your Covid-19 community surge test you do not need to go back for a further test.

You must self-isolate in line with NHS guidance if you have a positive test result.  

If your test is negative

If your test result is negative continue to follow the current national lockdown guidance (GOV.UK).