You can get regular rapid tests if you do not have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19).
Why you should get tested regularly
About 1 in 3 people with coronavirus do not have symptoms but can still infect others.
Getting tested regularly is the only way to know if you have the virus. If people test positive and self-isolate, it helps stop the virus spreading.
About rapid tests
The test for people without coronavirus symptoms is called a rapid lateral flow test.
This usually involves rubbing a long cotton bud (swab) over your tonsils (or where they would have been) and inside your nose.
The tests can give you a result in 30 minutes. They use a device similar to a pregnancy test and do not need to be sent to a lab.
You can do a rapid test at home or at a rapid lateral flow test site.
If you test positive, you and anyone you live with will need to self-isolate.
Who can get regular rapid tests
Anyone in England who does not have symptoms can now get regular rapid lateral flow tests to check for coronavirus.
Information:
If you have coronavirus symptoms, you need a different test called a PCR test. Get a PCR test if you have coronavirus symptoms on GOV.UK
How to get regular rapid tests
Go to a test site
You can go to a rapid lateral flow test site to get a rapid test.
If you go to a test site:
- you may need an appointment, so check before you go
- a trained helper might be able to help you do the test
- you'll get a text or email with the result when it's ready
Find your nearest rapid lateral flow test site
Get a test to do at home
You can get rapid tests to do at home.
You can collect up to 2 packs of 7 tests from a local pharmacy or test site:
- find a pharmacy where you can collect rapid tests
- find a test site where you can collect rapid tests
You can get a pack of 7 tests sent to your home. Order rapid lateral flow home test kits on GOV.UK
If you do tests at home, you'll need to report your results online or on the phone.
School, college and nursery testing
If you attend or work at a school, college or nursery you can get rapid tests through your school, college or nursery.
If you're in a childcare or support bubble with someone who attends or works at a school, college or nursery, you can get a rapid test at a rapid lateral flow test site or order tests to do at home.
You're advised to do a test twice a week.
Primary school-age children and younger do not need to test.
Employee and university testing
Some employers and universities offer rapid tests. Ask your employer or university if they provide rapid tests.