People living in Scotland are now able to order a free lateral flow test to check for coronavirus - even if they are showing no symptoms.
The tests can be ordered straight to you door, with the huge roll-out a way to keep Covid-19 at bay in a bid to ease Scotland out of lockdown safely.
The rapid tests return results within 30 minutes and should be taken twice weekly, whether or not you have any symptoms.
The rapid tests are aimed at finding cases that would otherwise go undetected, so anyone with a positive result can self-isolate to avoid spreading the virus to family and friends.
It also means those who do not have access to asymptomatic testing in their area can now test themselves, including anyone planning to travel to a Scottish island.
How do I report the results?
Instructions on taking the test can be found in the packet or the step-by-step instructions on NHS Inform.
Results will be displayed on the handheld device which comes with the test - heres what they mean:
- One line next to the letter ‘C’, this means the test is negative
- Two lines, one next to the letter ‘C’ and the letter ‘T’, is a positive result - even if the lines are faint
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No lines, or one line next to the letter ‘T’, is a void or invalid result
A negative result means that an active coronavirus infection was not detected at the time the test was taken, although this does not necessarily guarantee you do not have coronavirus.
If you get a positive result, you must self-isolate immediately to prevent any further transmission. You should not
People who receive a negative test should continue to follow lockdown rules, including social distancing, regular hand washing, and wearing face coverings where required.
You should report the result every time you use a test kit and as soon as possible after you get the result.
It's important to note that results cannot be reported after more than 24 hours and must only be submitted one result at a time.
You can report the results via the government's website here - and will need the barcode on the test strip or the ID number printed under it to do so.
A mobile phone number and email address is also needed to receive a text confirming your result has been reported successfully.
Alternatively, you can report your results by phone by calling the number in your test kit’s instructions.
What to do if you test positive?
A positive result means people should self-isolate with their household and order a PCR test - one that is sent to a lab - to confirm the positive result.
You can order a PCR test kit to be sent to your home - and you should not leave the house until the results are back.
More information can be found here.
