Confirmatory PCR tests temporarily suspended for positive lateral flow test results

Please see the press release from GOV.UK regarding a temporary change to the requirement for confirmatory PCR tests following a positive LFD test.

 

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/confirmatory-pcr-tests-to-be-temporarily-suspended-for-positive-lateral-flow-test-results?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

 

In summary, from today people in England who receive a positive lateral flow device (LFD) test result for coronavirus (COVID-19) will be required to self-isolate immediately and won’t be required to take a confirmatory PCR test.  They will be able to leave self-isolation 7 days after the date of their initial positive test ONLY if they receive 2 negative LFD results, 24 hours apart, on days 6 and 7.

 

Positive LFD test results should be reported on GOV.UK  https://www.gov.uk/report-covid19-result

 

Anyone who develops 1 of the 3 main COVID-19 symptoms should stay at home and self-isolate and take a PCR test. They must self-isolate if they get a positive test result, even if they have had a recent negative lateral flow test – these rules have not changed.