A COVID-19 asymptomatic testing site (ATS) opened at Musselburgh’s Queen Margaret University on Monday.

Funded by the UK Government, the testing site – for people showing no symptoms of coronavirus – is running in partnership with the university, Scottish Government and NHS Test and Protect to help students move home for the winter break and protect the wider community.

It is hoped that testing – as well as limiting social mixing for two weeks before students go home – will help break the chain of transmission amongst students, especially when they are infected but are not aware of it, and help ensure the safety of their loved ones.

The ATS will conduct lateral flow tests – rapid turnaround tests that can process samples on site without the need for laboratory equipment.

The university is working with NHS Test & Protect to set up the on-campus ATS so that students who intend to move household over the winter break and are without symptoms, are able to get tested and asked to self-isolate if they test positive, or be quickly reassured if they do not.

Sir Paul Grice, the university’s principal, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this facility.

“While many of our students will remain in Edinburgh and East Lothian, we know that many others are planning to change household or to visit family and friends over the winter break.

“By participating in testing, they will help avoid the spread of Covid to their family, friends and the wider community.”

Testing is available for all students. Visit qmu.ac.uk/coronavirus