The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
THE HSE has suspended walk-in testing for Clare people presenting with Covid-19 symptoms due to a dramatic surge in demand.
More than 5,900 tests were completed in Ennis in the last two weeks of October, and this has continued into this week with a further 1,500 tests conducted between Monday and Wednesday.
This trend is reflected throughout the Mid West Region, where more than 43,000 tests were conducted last month.
The huge increase in demand means that walk-in testing cannot be accommodated at this time, and tests are only available by booking in advance.
In fact, the HSE Mid West Community Healthcare, which operates Covid-19 Test Centres across the region, including in Ennis, is now conducting more tests than at any other stage since the onset of the pandemic.
The Ennis Covid-19 Test Centre is located at Block 1 Ballymaley Business Park, Ennis.
People attending Test Centres will be required to verify their pre-booked appointments upon arrival, and it is important that people only attend during their allocated time as it may not be possible to facilitate testing outside these time slots.
Members of the public can easily book appointments via the HSE website. Those who do not have internet access are encouraged to seek the assistance of a friend or family member, or they can seek a Covid-19 test through their GP.
All Covid-19 testing is free of charge, and is available seven days a week.
Ellen Rush, Covid-19 Testing Lead with HSE Mid West Community Healthcare acknowledged their staff are under significant pressure with the high number of people currently presenting for tests. “We’re appealing to the public to help us by booking their tests in advance, and by attending for their tests at the allocated time.”
“I want to pay tribute to our testing teams who are continuing to excel in providing a high-quality service during these very busy times. I also want to thank the public for their ongoing support and co-operation.”
Covid-19 tests can be booked via https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/Covid19/testing/get-tested/
Dan Danaher
