What tests are available?

There are two types of test, and they play different roles. They are: Lateral Flow Tests: These quick and effective tests are being offered to people not showing signs of the virus. An estimated one-inthree cases of Covid-19 are asymptomatic, and people can unknowingly spread it.

Free rapid tests are easy to get from your workplace if available, to test or collect at a local testing site, at participating pharmacies and to order online at NHS.uk/get-tested. If you test positive, you need to self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test. Whether negative, positive or even void, you should report the result at gov.uk/reportcovid19-result or call 119.

PCR Tests: The PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test is only for people who are showing symptoms of the virus – a high temperature, a new and continuous cough or a loss of taste or smell – or who have a positive lateral flow test result.

They are performed at local Covid test centres, or you can have one sent to your home through the gov.uk website.

If you have symptoms, you must self-isolate for 10 days or until a test result comes back negative.

n To get free tests online go to: NHS.uk/get-tested