Covid-19 infections are rising fast in Tower Hamlets and the rest of the country. There is plenty of testing capacity to meet local demand and testing options for both people with symptoms and people without symptoms.

If you have symptoms

Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 (a new or continuous cough, a high temperature or a change to/loss in normal sense of smell or taste) should book a test online through the national system or call 119.

Tower Hamlets residents will be offered an appointment at the closest testing site to them. In Tower Hamlets there are local testing sites in  Shadwell, Mile End and Isle of Dogs. There is also a mobile testing unit near Canary Wharf and other temporary sites. Appointments at all these sites are available through the national system.

If you have no symptoms

One in three people who test positive for coronavirus show no symptoms at all.

We are now offering rapid Covid-19 tests (Lateral Flow Tests) to people who don’t have symptoms of Covid-19 but would still like to get tested.

The tests are quick and convenient and provide results in under 30 minutes. If a person is positive, they will be referred to get a confirmatory test (a test through the national system).

If you are:

• a key worker (carers, tradespeople and essential retail)
• can’t work from home
• or if others in your household still go out for work

You should take up the offer of free and regular rapid Covid-19 tests, even if you have no symptoms. Quick and regular testing can help protect you and those you live with.

There are two rapid testing sites in Tower Hamlets:

• Ecology Pavillion, Mile End Park, E3 5TW
• 56 Burcham Street, Poplar, E14 0SH

Both sites are open 10am to 7pm. People do not need to book - they are currently walk-up test sites.

Mayor John Biggs.