Two more rapid COVID-19 testing sites will open at Wellington Day Centre(from Monday 18 January onwards) and Isleworth Library (from Tuesday 19 January onwards).

It comes as 1,056 residents in the borough have had a Lateral Flow rapid COVID-19 test during the first week of the new testing service..

Lateral Flow rapid tests are for residents and key workers to detect if they have the virus and are not aware.

Pre-booked rapid test appointments, for people who do not have COVID-19 symptoms, have been available at Hounslow House and Heston Library since 5 January.

About one in three people with COVID-19 have no symptoms, but can still pass the virus to others without knowing.

The 'rapid tests' take 15 minutes and provide a result within 40 minutes. They are available for anyone who still needs to go out for work – key workers, carers, tradespeople and essential retail workers – who need a quick result and regular testing.

Those without COVID-19 symptoms, who are 18 years old and over, can book a free rapid test online for appointments at either Hounslow House or Heston Library via the Hounslow Council website.

The council is increasing COVID-19 testing capacity at these two rapid test centres, before rolling out further testing sites across the borough, to ensure as many people as possible without covid-19 symptoms can get tested.

For those who don't have access to the internet, they can call 0207 084 9697 to book a rapid test.

They should not walk up to the testing centres without booking and should not book a rapid test if they have coronavirus symptoms.

People who do have COVID-19 symptoms, for example a high fever, a new, continuous, cough or a loss of taste or smell, should get a 'PCR test' instead. 'PCR' tests are also available for those under 18 years old. You can book a test on the Government's website.

Cllr Steve Curran, Leader of Hounslow Council, said: "The current infection rate in the borough is extremely high and we're doing all we can to help reduce it as quickly as possible.

"Rapid testing is an opportunity for us all to do our bit, and plays an important role in tackling the virus by identifying those who don't have symptoms, but who may still have coronavirus and be spreading it without knowing. If you can't work from home, or if others in your household still go out for work, please book your rapid test online."