Lateral flow covid tests will be available free to anyone in Scotland from Monday.
The quick test packages are part of a universal testing initiative to be introduced across the country, following their introduction in England and for senior school pupils.
Speaking at the Covid briefing First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed plans for all citizens to have access to the speedy tests, which can give results within just 30 minutes.
People can order test packages online for home delivery by following details on the Scottish Government’s website. Alternatively, the nose and throat swab tests can be collected from covid testing centres in the afternoons or early evening.
Sturgeon said: ”I would encourage everyone to take advantage of this offer.”
The First Minister encouraged people travelling to Scottish island to take take two lateral flow tests before making their journey in order to protect the very low rates of covid on the islands.
One should be taken three days before travel and the other the day before travel to allow people the option of cancelling their visit.
Sturgeon said: “If you are planning on travelling to an island over the course of next week it is possible to get tests from today, and we’d encourage you to do that.
She added: “This is potentially an important way in which we can minimise the risk of bringing covid into island communities while giving them the benefit of opening up again to visitors.”
