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A dedicated testing facility for islanders assessed as being at high risk of carrying coronavirus has opened in Five Oaks.
Open from 08:30 until 14:30 daily, the centre will not be accessible to the general public.
Only patients suffering flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, headache and muscle aches), who have been referred via the coronavirus helpline will be allowed to attend.
Islanders suffering such symptoms are urged to self-isolate for a minimum of seven days until they are symptom-free - whether they have recently travelled to an affected country or been in contact with anyone with Covid-19 or not. Over 65s who have been social-distancing also do not need to call unless they have symptoms.
All Islanders with flu-like symptoms, including a combination of fever, a cough, muscle aches and headaches should self-isolate until they are symptom free (for a minimum of 7 days), whether they have travelled outside Jersey or not: https://t.co/LT1knDOnYA pic.twitter.com/2jqW1swWDw
— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) March 14, 2020
The helpline will review each patients' symptoms and circumstances to determine if they need to be swabbed.
Health officials said the helpline is getting a "considerable amount" of calls and is urging those without symptoms to refer instead to the government's dedicated coronavirus portal.
"There is no risk to the public but as [the testing facility] is designated a clinical area, only referred patients will be permitted to access it," Health Operations Manager Gary Kynman said.
"All other islanders should stay away so the professionals can concentrate on their work and the privacy of patients can be maintained."
It comes after updated travel advice was issued yesterday, warning islanders to refrain non-essential trips off-island.
Express was live at the press conference with Chief Minister, Health Minister, Economic Development Minister, Director General for Health and Medical Director.
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