With lockdown easing, seeing a return to pubs, gyms and shops, new Covid testing measures have been introduced to monitor the deadly virus.
People in England can have two free of charge rapid coronavirus tests per week, which can produce results in around half an hour.
The takeaway lateral flow kits are available at approved testing sites, pharmacies and by post.
There are 21 sites in Epping Forest and the surrounding areas where residents can collect the tests, shown by an online map published by the NHS.
Pick up locations for free lateral flow tests in Loughton and Buckhurst Hill. Photo: NHS
Here is a comprehensive list of where you can get your tests:
Additional Covid-19 self-test collection sites will be introduced across Essex next week and thanks to an agreement between Essex County Council and partner councils, more residents will receive financial support if they test positive for the virus.
Dr Mike Gogarty, Essex's director of public health, said: “We understand that not everyone has the means or time to visit a testing centre on a regular basis but testing really is vital in stopping the spread of the virus. That is why we have introduced self-testing collection points, making it easier than ever for residents to introduce testing into their weekly routine.
"We know that residents are eager to take part in self-testing and by setting up convenient collection points within local communities, we can ensure they have regular access to testing kits to complete twice a week.
Pick up locations for free lateral flow tests in Epping. Photo: NHS
“As restrictions ease and people start to meet up with others outdoors, the need for people who aren’t showing symptoms to take part in regular testing is more vital than ever.
“If regular testing is not something you have considered previously and you are not already accessing self-tests in another way, I urge you to pick up test kits from your nearest community collection point, complete them regularly and help to keep your friends and family safe.”
Health ministers have said the takeaway tests will help spot any outbreaks as lockdown restrictions ease, and could help track the emergence of variants.
Last week, health minister Edward Argar told BBC Breakfast he expected the lateral flow tests to be used by people returning to work in the coming weeks as the “economy starts opening up again”.
He said fewer than one in 1,000 lateral flow tests gave a false positive result and refused to set an “arbitrary” date for when testing would end.
Mr Argar said the tests would be paid for as part of NHS Test and Trace’s funding of £37 billion over two years, with 80 per cent of that expected to be used for testing.
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