DRIVE-THROUGH Coronavirus testing centres have been set up in Powys.

Testing at the units at Bronllys Hospital, between Brecon and Talgarth, and Welshpool Hospital, are operating on an appointment only basis.

Anyone worried they may have symptoms must first visit the NHS Direct website or call NHS Direct on 111 if they do not have internet access.

Powys Teaching Health Board has said: "People will be assessed, and directed to attend a centre if appropriate. Testing units will provide testing without individuals leaving their car, using a throat swab to minimise the disruption to individuals and staff.

"People are asked to self-isolate while swabs are analysed which normally takes around 24 hours. "

Home testing will also be carried out in some cases in Powys.

Stuart Bourne, director of public health for Powys Teaching Health Board, said: "We’ve set up the testing units to make sure people in our community can get safe, convenient and quick testing for coronavirus, as part of NHS efforts to keep everyone safe. These tests are only available by appointment for people who have first been assessed following a call to NHS 111 Wales.

“It’s crucial that we help residents in our area to get accurate, timely testing where appropriate. Testing, whether at home or at a testing unit, offers support for people to get tested promptly."

Mr Bourne also paid tribute to the health board staff who are dealing with the outbreak and reminded people to take simple precautions to combat the virus.

He said: "“Everybody can take simple steps to stay well, including good basic hygiene especially washing your hands regularly, using hot water and soap or alcohol hand rub.

“With coronavirus spreading through droplets between people in close contact with each other, if you sneeze or cough or have a winter cold, blow your nose then dispose the tissue and wash your hands so germs don’t spread. Remember: catch it, bin it, kill it.”

At present there are 15 cases of Coronavirus in Wales with six cases in Neath-Port Talbon and two in Carmarthenshire. Six people have died in the UK with more than 380 cases across the UK including one in Herefordshire.

What should you do if you are worried about Coronavirus symptoms?

People who meet the criteria for suspected coronavirus cases should contact the NHS before attending any testing centres.

Step One: Visit www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/covid19 - this online symptom checker will advise them what to do.

Step Two: If advised by the online symptom checker, then dial 111.

People without internet access to use the online symptom checker can call NHS Direct on 111.

There is a symptom checker at www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/covid19