COVID-19 testing for KGH staff begins

Coronavirus swab testing for Kettering General Staff is under way.

This morning (Wednesday) the hospital's chief people officer, Mark Smith, confirmed staff were now being tested.

It comes after Northampton General Hospital set up a drive-thru test station earlier this week.

Mr Smith said: “Staff testing has commenced at Kettering General Hospital.

"So far 76 members of staff or their family member had been tested. Results are expected in 24 to 48 hours.

“Our initial priority is for members of staff who have symptoms of a cough or high temperature but who would return to work if they had a negative test and similarly staff who are self-isolating because they live with a person who has COVID-19 symptoms.

"We have initially focused on front line areas but are testing staff from across the trust.

“Testing will continue on a daily basis and will be expanded alongside the planned rise in national testing.”