A new Covid-19 rapid testing centre will open in Huddersfield town centre on Monday (August 2) as it was revealed infection rates across Kirklees have dropped by 22%.

With 351 people per 100,000 in Kirklees testing positive for Covid-19 over the last seven days, the borough’s infection rate is below the national average of 375 people per 100,000.

However, infection rates remain high and hospital admissions and deaths have increased. There were two deaths in local hospitals related to Covid-19 over the last seven days after none in the last few weeks.

Hospital admissions also increased, with 36 people admitted to local hospitals in the last week – up from 30 the previous week.

Hospital admissions are now the highest amongst the 20-39 age group and Kirklees Council is urging young people to get the jab.

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Meanwhile, a new Community Testing Centre – for people without symptoms – opens on Monday in Upperhead Row outside Huddersfield Bus Station.

The centre will replace the one that has been operating at the Hudawi Centre in Great Northern Street and there is no need to book.

Tests are processed on site and results will be received by text or e-mail within 40 minutes.

Rachel Spencer-Henshall

Rachel Spencer-Henshall, strategic director for public health at Kirklees Council, said: “This isn’t about restrictions anymore. It’s about us all making simple but effective choices which save lives.

“By choosing to be kind, to give others space, to wear a face covering, and choosing to get tested, we are all exercising our freedoms to help others and protect our community.

“I’m proud of all that we’ve done as a community throughout the pandemic, and I’m happy that we can continue to support residents to get tested for Covid and help us stop the spread.”

The new community testing centre will be open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm on Saturdays, and closed on Sundays.

Anyone displaying Covid-19 symptoms should book a PCR test.

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