An estimated 43,000 people may have been given wrong negative PCR Covid test results, the UK Health Security Agency has said.
NHS Test and Trace has suspended testing operations provided by Immensa Health Clinic Ltd at its laboratory in Wolverhampton, following an investigation into reports of people receiving negative PCR test results after they have previously tested positive on a lateral flow.
The errors relate to test results given to people between September 8 and October 12, mainly in the South West of England.
There are no technical issues with test kits themselves and people should continue to test as normal, UKHSA said.
It said a full investigation is being carried out into why and how incorrect results were given.
NHS Test and Trace estimates that around 400,000 samples have been processed through the lab.
In a statement, the UK Health Security Agency said: “NHS Test and Trace have suspended testing operations provided by Immensa Health Clinic Ltd at its laboratory in Wolverhampton, following an investigation into reports of people receiving negative PCR test results after they have previously tested positive on a Lateral Flow Device.
“While investigations are under way into the precise cause, NHS Test and Trace estimate that around 400,000 samples have been processed through the lab, the vast majority of which will have been negative results, but an estimated 43,000 people may have been given incorrect negative PCR test results between 8 September and 12 October, mostly in the South West of England.
“This is an isolated incident attributed to one laboratory but all samples are now being redirected to other laboratories. The number of tests carried out at the Immensa laboratory are small in the context of the wider network and testing availability is unaffected around the country.
“NHS TT is contacting the people that could still be infectious to advise them to take another test. Close contacts who are symptomatic will also be advised to take a test in line with normal practice. Anyone with Covid-19 symptoms should book a PCR test. Those with a positive LFD test should get a follow up PCR test to confirm they have Covid-19.”
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea
