Lateral flow tests available for twice-weekly regime
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LATERAL flow tests are now being offered free in Lloyds Pharmacies in Moray and across Scotland.
The NHS-funded rapid, regular lateral flow tests can deliver a Covid result within 30 minutes.
Tests are available to collect from those aged over 18 without symptoms, who can visit a local pharmacy and collect a box of seven rapid tests to use twice a week at home.
Customers can order the free tests from pharmacies in Lossiemouth (Clifton Road) and Elgin (175 High Street) from today.
Anshu Kaura, LloydsPharmacy Pharmacist said: “Each box contains seven tests, allowing customers to test themselves twice weekly within a 3-week time frame.
"This number of tests in the box factors in the potential for a void test. You’ll need to take a sample from the back of your throat, near your tonsils, and from your nose using the swab included. The swab is then dipped in a solution which is then dripped onto the lateral flow test.. This generates a reading and your result.”
Regular testing continues to play a critical role in stopping the spread of the virus and breaking the chains of transmission.
Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 – a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – should book a PCR test online in place of a rapid test.
You can find all the information about LloydsPharmacy’s Online Doctor COVID testing here: https://onlinedoctor.lloydspharmacy.com/uk/coronavirus-covid-19-testing/covid-19-swab-test-kit
Meanwhile, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has given a clear indication that a further easing of lockdown restrictions in Scotlannd is likely to be delayed by three weeks due to concern ove the Delta variant.
A final decision will be taken next week, but Ms Sturgeon has said it is unlikely local council areas will move to level zero from June 28, as originally planned.