Key workers tested for Covid-19 at Edinburgh Airport

NHS staff, emergency services personnel, teachers and bus drivers among those visiting drive-through facility.

The drive-through coronavirus testing facility at Edinburgh Airport is dealing with a steady stream of visitors – from 8am in the morning to 8pm at night.

They see a range of key workers including NHS staff, emergency services, teachers and bus drivers.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says testing is crucial to returning the country to some semblance of normality as she considers making some minor changes to the current lockdown restrictions next week.

More than 3,000 tests were carried out by NHS Scotland yesterday in hospitals, care homes and the community.

In addition, there were almost 2,000 drive-through and mobile tests, funded by the UK Government.

Key workers book their test online. They receive results within 48 hours, allowing them to return to work quickly if they are negative.

For now testing remains focused on the vulnerable, key workers and monitoring the spread of the virus.

Increasing capacity further will be crucial to controlling any further outbreaks as we emerge from lockdown.