Ree side flow tests are being phased out to the general public this Friday, as some high-risk groups will still have access. This follows the “Living with Covid” strategy announced in February by Boris Johnson to end compulsory seclusion, travel restrictions – and, from Friday, April 1, free lateral flow tests for the majority of UK residents. Recent guidance advises those with Covid-19 symptoms to stay home and “avoid contact with other people” for a recommended five days. The Minister of Health said: “Thanks to our plan to deal with Covid, we are leading the way in learning to live with the virus. “Vaccines remain our best defense and we now offer spring breaks to the elderly, caregivers and the most vulnerable – please protect yourself, your family and your community.”
READ MORE
When do the free Covid tests end?
Free lateral flow tests are available to the general public until Friday, April 1st. Order a test from the government website to answer questions about whether you have symptoms. If not, one message states that the tests are “necessary” for those at higher risk and “for those who need them most”.
When could the free Covid tests for the general population return?
The free trial could be restored if a dangerous new variant arises, so the government saves the lateral flow tests as a precaution.
Who can still receive free lateral flow tests?
Sajid Javid announced that free examinations will be provided to some symptomatic groups and other asymptomatic groups at high risk of outbreaks. Access to trials for NHS patients and inpatient staff will continue, through existing testing or self-ordered testing programs – and a small number of visitors to care homes and hostels providing personal care. Some staff in closed high-risk environments will be provided with asymptomatic examinations, including care homes, hostels, shelters for the home, homeless shops, prisons, and detention facilities. During cases to minimize the risk and spread of Covid-19 variants, asymptomatic trials will be administered to schools with special needs and disabilities in homes, as well as to caregivers and residents. Plans have announced that other symptomatic groups may also have access to free examinations – including: · Some hospital patients who need PCR examinations to have continuous access to treatment pathways and clinical management People who are eligible for Covid antiviral treatments, such as Pfizer Paxlovid, are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill. We will contact this team about how to rearrange the tests and send side flow tests for home use if symptoms occur.
How can I do a lateral flow test after Friday?
The government has set up an approved list of lateral flow test providers here with contact details. After a test, users can report their results on the government website here. You can only register your result if you use a state-owned provider, as they warn that unlisted retailers may not meet the minimum standards. Order online or at your local drugstore, including street chains.
How much will lateral flow tests cost?
Lateral flow tests are much cheaper than PCR. High street options include Boots with a single test for 2, 2.50, £ 12 for a pack of five or £ 17 for four with the option to send results to the UK Health Insurance Service (UKHSA). Elsewhere, Superdrug sells Healgen for just 99 1.99. Both stores offer Flowflex multipacks for less than £ 10. Publicly traded Randox offers five trials for £ 15 and σε 12 at a sale price of £ 47.50.