Confirmatory PCR tests for people who test positive via lateral flow scrapped

People who test positive for Covid using a lateral flow test will no longer need to confirm that result with a PCR test, health officials have confirmed.
By Caitlin Doherty
Published 5th Jan 2022, 13:14 BST
Updated 5th Jan 2022, 13:21 BST

The move, which comes into force from next Tuesday (January 11), is a temporary measure that will remain in place while Covid cases across the country are high, according to the UK Health Security Agency.

Anybody who tests positive with a lateral flow will have to isolate immediately and will not be required to do the second PCR to confirm.

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Infection rates in the UK are so high, they say, that the chance of an incorrect test is very low, the UKHSA have said.

A woman taking a lateral flow test in a household in Devon. The UK Health Security Agency have said people in England without coronavirus symptoms who have a positive lateral flow test will no longer need a confirmatory PCR test from January 11A woman taking a lateral flow test in a household in Devon. The UK Health Security Agency have said people in England without coronavirus symptoms who have a positive lateral flow test will no longer need a confirmatory PCR test from January 11
A woman taking a lateral flow test in a household in Devon. The UK Health Security Agency have said people in England without coronavirus symptoms who have a positive lateral flow test will no longer need a confirmatory PCR test from January 11

UKHSA Chief Executive Dr Jenny Harries said: “While cases of COVID continue to rise, this tried-and-tested approach means that LFDs can be used confidently to indicate COVID-19 infection without the need for PCR confirmation.

“It remains really important that anyone who experiences COVID-19 symptoms self-isolates immediately. They should also order a PCR test on gov.uk, or by phoning 119.

“I’m really grateful to the public and all of our critical workers who continue to test regularly and self-isolate when necessary, along with other practical and important public health behaviours, as this is the most effective way of stopping the spread of the virus and keeping our friends, families and communities safe.”

This afternoon, Prime Minister Boris Johnson will face MPs for the first time since he said current restrictions in England look like they will be enough to “ride out” the wave of Omicron infections.

Related topics:PCRBoris JohnsonMPs

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