THE launch of the NHS Test and Trace service will be supported by Redditch’s strong community spirit, according to Rachel Maclean MP.

Launched yesterday (Thursday, May 28), the service will help identify, contain and control coronavirus, reduce the spread of the virus and save lives.

Anyone who tests positive for coronavirus will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace and will need to share information about their recent interactions.

The service will be supported by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust increasing its lab testing capacity ten-fold.

People identified as having been in close contact with someone who has a positive test must stay at home for 14 days, even if they do not have symptoms, to stop unknowingly spreading the virus.

If those in isolation develop symptoms, they can book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.

If they test positive, they must continue to stay at home for seven days or until their symptoms have passed. If they test negative, they must complete the 14-day isolation period.

Members of their household will not have to stay at home unless the person identified becomes symptomatic, at which point they must also self-isolate for 14 days to avoid unknowingly spreading the virus.

Rachel said: “I know our community in Redditch will be eager to help others and cooperate willingly.

"This service will be supported by Redditch’s strong community spirit which will help us to reduce the spread of the virus and save lives.

“Test and Trace is key to getting back to normality and getting the economy back on its feet.”