We’ve increased tests in UK for Coronavirus #COVIDー19 5,000 in one day on Friday, and at least 37,746 overall. We’re testing well above most countries (save Italy / China / S Korea).
I’ve had some questions on why we’ve changed the testing approach. I’ll try to explain here 1/
I’ve had some questions on why we’ve changed the testing approach. I’ll try to explain here 1/
Firstly we need to prioritise testing the most vulnerable to ensure we understand their care needs and what treatment they need.
Secondly we’re testing medical / caring staff to limit the spread of the virus to most vulnerable 2/
Secondly we’re testing medical / caring staff to limit the spread of the virus to most vulnerable 2/
The test is not 100% accurate (no test is and this is a new virus) and can give false negative results as you need a certain viral load to get a positive test. 3/
One risk is by testing too early those with mild or fewer symptoms may get a negative test & then stop self isolation and start infecting others.
Even w/a negative test you should still self isolate w/ symptoms or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus. 4/
Even w/a negative test you should still self isolate w/ symptoms or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus. 4/
You are most contagious in the first 4 days, therefore by self-isolating if you have the symptoms you are protecting your communities & country.
Best thing you can do is self-isolate rather than focusing on a test, that’s how we get outbreak under control & keep people safe 4/
Best thing you can do is self-isolate rather than focusing on a test, that’s how we get outbreak under control & keep people safe 4/
This video is extremely useful to explain why we we are taking the approach we are overall
Here’s the most available science in the Lancet and it stands up the Government’s approach 6/
thelancet.com/action/showPdf…
thelancet.com/action/showPdf…
