Can you get a coronavirus test on Christmas Day?

Most of us are hoping for a peaceful and healthy Christmas.

But there will be some people who in need over a coronavirus test over the festive period, even on Christmas Day.

There will be more than 50 Covid-19 testing sites open in Greater Manchester over Christmas and New Year.

These include the regional test centres at the Etihad Campus and Manchester Airport, and local testing sites in each of the 10 boroughs.

Health leaders say some of the sites will have reduced opening hours on days when demand is expected to be lower.

Home testing kits will still be available too. If you do order a kit you will be given specific guidance about when to return your test to match the Royal Mail’s collection times.

How do I get a coronavirus test on Christmas Day?

You can book a test or order a home testing kit through the usual channels – via gov.uk/coronavirus, the NHS COVID-19 app or by calling 119.

On Bank Holidays (December 25, December 28, January 1), you must book your test; walk-up tests without a prior booking are not available.

It is recommended to book a test in advance on other days too.

Could there be a delay in test results?

The Department for Health and Social Care say there shouldn’t be delays.

Health Minister Lord Bethell has said: “We continue to work night and day to ensure testing is accessible across the country. This vital work will not stop for Christmas, with minimal disruption to our services.”

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson added: “NHS Test and Trace continues to test record numbers of people and people can have confidence that if they have symptoms and need a test, they can get one.

“We are delivering an unprecedent volume of tests – more than 450,000 yesterday alone – and during periods of high demand our focus is ensuring that anyone with symptoms can get a test.