PEOPLE in Hastings are being urged to book a Covid test as infection rates rise in the town.

Concern about the rise in cases and high transmission rates has prompted East Sussex County Council to advise that anyone who thinks they may have been in close contact with someone infectious should get a PCR test, even if they feel fine.

Anyone who has symptoms, has had a positive lateral flow test result, or who has been confirmed as being in contact with someone who has tested positive, is being told to book a test.

A mobile testing unit opened today at St Leonards Academy in Edinburgh Road and will be operating until Sunday, July 18.

This is in addition to the testing sites in Hastings and Bexhill.

All tests must be pre-booked.

While cases in Hastings have risen rapidly in recent days, to 360 per 100,000, fewer people are needing hospital treatment in East Sussex than in previous waves.

The most recent figures show 11 people being treated with Covid at hospitals in the county.

Darrell Gale, director of public health for East Sussex, said: “I’d strongly advise you to book a test if you think you may have been exposed to someone with the virus, and of course if you know you have been exposed, or if you have symptoms, even mild ones.

“The rise in cases here in Hastings is a concern, but by booking a test at the first suspicion of infection or contact, the community will be doing everything possible to identity and isolate the virus and protect each other.

“Test are free, quick and easy to book. Please don’t hesitate if you feel there’s a good chance you’ve been in contact with the virus, for instance in a crowded indoor space.”

Anyone with a positive result from a PCR test will be advised on how to self-isolate and the financial support that may be available.

To book any coronavirus test, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing/get-tested-for-coronavirus/ or call 119.