Lateral flow self-test kits being rolled out across North Wales from today

Lateral flow kits for those unable to work from home are available to pick-up from the coronavirus test centre in Wrexham from today.

The rapid coronavirus testing kits are being rolled to help identify those who are not displaying symptoms of the virus.

As many as 1 in 3 people may have COVID-19 without displaying symptoms which means asymptomatic testing is an important means to keep people safe as restrictions are gradually eased.

It is hoped that improving the availability of lateral flow tests will make regular asymptomatic testing for coronavirus more convenient and accessible for people not covered under existing schemes at workplaces, childcare settings, schools, colleges and universities.

In Wrexham the kits are available from the coronavirus testing centre, at the Wrexham Memorial Hall in the town centre (LL12 7AG).

Other locations include Bangor, Dean Street Car Park (LL57 1UP), Rhyl, Quay Street Carpark (LL18 1NS) and Connah’s Quay, Civic Hall (CH5 4HA).

People can collect the rapid tests seven days a week between 8am and 1pm, no appointment is needed.

Each person will routinely be able to collect two packs of seven LFD self-test kits for home use.

The sites will then be deep cleaned and reopen as symptomatic testing sites between 2pm and 8pm each day.

It is recommended that tests are undertaken twice a week with the results recorded on the UK Government portal.

The health board in North Wales has said it is “important that even those who’ve had the vaccine take use the tests twice a week as they could still carry the virus and pass it on to others.”

The tests are easy to use and can give results in 30 minutes. It is hoped that improving their availability will make regular asymptomatic testing for coronavirus more convenient and accessible for people not covered under existing schemes at workplaces, childcare settings, schools, colleges and universities.

The Welsh Government is also looking at other collection venues for test kits to be made available, as well as how they can be delivered to people’s homes.

About the rapid tests

• The tests are easy to use and can give results in 30 minutes. It’s recommended the tests are done in the morning and 3-4 days apart. Read the step-by-step guide for COVID-19 self-testing before you start the test.
• If there is a positive lateral flow test result the person should self-isolate immediately and book a COVID test (PCR test) within 24 hours by calling 119, online or via the NHS COVID-19 app.
• If negative then another test should be taken 3-4 days later. However if coronavirus symptoms develop in that time a COVID test should be booked.
• All tests results – negative and positive – need to be recorded online here: https://www.gov.uk/report-covid19-result
• More information about lateral flow tests can be found on the Welsh Government website.