Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Daniel Morrow

Scottish Government announces 'important changes' to Covid testing guidance

The Scottish Government has updated its guidance on lateral flow tests as the country continues to emerge from the worst of Omicron Covid wave.

In December, Scots were urged to take a rapid test every time before they meet up with friends and family.

This came as cases of Covid spiked following the emergence of the Omicron in Scotland.

Officials have now reverted back to the old guidance, which says that Scots should only take a lateral flow test twice week.

They have also recommended that tests should be taken before heading out to a crowded place or visiting a vulnerable person.

Scots are not required to take a lateral flow test for 28 days after their positive test.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Government said: “You only need to take a Lateral Flow Test twice a week, and if visiting someone vulnerable or a crowded place.

“After a positive result, you don’t need to LFD test for 28 days. Book a PCR if you develop new symptoms.”

Lateral flow tests are available for Scots to take at home if they do not have any Covid symptoms - which includes a new and continuous cough, fever and a loss of taste or smell.

The kits are seen to be a crucial part of Scotland’s plan to live with the virus in weeks and months to come.

Nicola Sturgeon last week announced details of the Scottish Government’s strategic framework in dealing with the pandemic going forward.

As part of this, Scots will no longer be legally required to wear a face covering in indoor public places from March 21.

The legal requirement for venues to take the contact details of customers will also be scrapped from this date.

The First Minister also committed to continuing the continuing the free lateral flow testing scheme for at least another month while she seeks clarity from Whitehall on funding.

Sturgeon has expressed her frustration at the UK Government following its decision to end free testing in England from next month.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.