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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Cheryl McEvoy

Mass covid testing of students starts on Monday ahead of Christmas trips home

Mass testing of students for coronavirus in Scotland will start next week.

Thousands are expected to take part in the huge programme, designed to help ensure it's safe for them to return home for Christmas.

Updated guidance has been published by the Scottish Government advising students to take extra precautions to minimise the risk of infection.

The voluntary testing programme will begin on Monday and can be accessed via their university.

Further education Minister Richard Lochhead said the priority is to keep students and their families safe.

He explained: "This is part of a huge UK-wide effort by colleges and universities to test asymptomatic students before they leave their term-time accommodation.

“I want to thank all students for their tremendous resilience and patience this academic year and I know that they will continue to do all they can to stay safe and ensure a happy reunion with their loved ones.”

The move has been welcomed by the National Union of Students.

President Matt Crilly added: "We now have our part to play and so I’d strongly encourage any student moving household over the holidays to plan ahead and get tested if you can.”

Tests should be taken twice over three days and are available free to students without symptoms planning to return home for Christmas. Results will be available within half an hour.

Scotland's convener of universities, Professor Gerry McCormac pointed out: "A double negative result will give you more confidence to travel home but it doesn't change the need to practise personal safety measures, wear a face covering, avoid crowds, keep two metres distance and wash your hands regularly to minimise your risk."

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