Lateral flow test shortage is a supply chain disaster

A sign informing customers that tests have run out at a Boots pharmacy in London. ‘It’s not a joke. It’s a supply chain disaster,’ says John Dewhurst. Photograph: Hollie Adams/AFP/Getty

I spent an hour on Wednesday driving around trying to get hold of lateral flow tests for myself and my husband as we only have four left (Covid test shortages threaten New Year’s Eve celebrations in England, 28 December). I tried the online service – nothing. I tried five pharmacies in the villages and small towns near me – nothing.

We have all been told to get tested before seeing friends and family over the new year holiday. Shortly, parents will need to have tests available for their children returning to school. Why did this government not foresee this and plan for it? How many more times will they let the people down? “Herd immunity” is what I am thinking, and “let the bodies pile high”. I am beyond angry.
Bridget Craig
Ashurst, Hampshire

• My local pharmacy has a permanent notice saying: “We have run out of LFTs. Please try again tomorrow.” Tomorrow, of course, never comes. It reminds me of the sign sometimes seen in pubs: “Free beer tomorrow!” It’s a joke there. But in a public health emergency, it’s not a joke. It’s a supply chain disaster.
John Dewhurst
Teddington, London

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