Related Articles
Lateral flow tests are in huge demand as coronavirus cases continue to soar across the capital – here’s where to get them when they run out online.
The government website announced they have completely run out of both lateral flow test (LFT) kits and PCR booking slots around the country as the Omicron variant continues to spread, The Mirror reports.
The supply issues are sure to be concerning for those who have come into contact with someone who has tested positive, or is displaying symptoms and want to get their hands on a test.
READ MORE: London Covid: Infection rates by borough revealed as positive cases in capital double rest of UK
The government’s official guidance on their website for sourcing a lateral flow test outlines the places you ‘might be able to’ source one.
It states that you may be able to get tests from places like libraries, pharmacies and testing sites that are local to your home.
The best place to start is by using NHS’s dedicated postcode checker . This will tell you where the closest centres are to collect home tests or to get tested.
Another option, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said, is: “Everyone who needs a lateral flow test can collect test kits – either at their local pharmacy, some community sites and some schools and colleges.”
The UKHSA added: “Due to exceptionally high demand, ordering lateral flow tests on gov.uk has been temporarily suspended to fulfil existing orders.”
Stocks of online tests will be replenished soon so it is definitely worth frequently checking back on the government website for updates.
The lack of tests is believed to be because the government is still catching up with fulfilling pre-existing orders after “exceptionally high demand.”
Do you want to stay up to date with the latest news, views, features and opinion from across the city?
MyLondon’s brilliant newsletter The 12 is absolutely jam packed with all the latest to keep you keep you entertained, informed and uplifted.
You’ll get 12 stories straight to your inbox at around 12pm. It’s the perfect lunchtime read.
And what’s more – it’s FREE!
The MyLondon team tells London stories for Londoners. Our journalists cover all the news you need – from City Hall to your local streets, so you’ll never miss a moment.
Don’t skip a beat and sign up to The 12 newsletter here.
Speaking to Sky News, a Whitehall spokesperson said: “We have plenty of tests, people can continue to get them from pharmacies and other sites.
“We have seen a surge in demand and that is putting pressure on the delivery system rather than stock levels of home test kits.”
However, Angela Rayner, the Labour deputy leader said: “The government’s inability to procure properly and plan for civil contingencies is reckless. Boris Johnson has his priorities in the wrong place.”
Want more from MyLondon? Sign up to our daily newsletters for all the latest and greatest from across London here.
Have a story you think we should be covering? Email ben.kempton@reachplc.com.
