The Government has unveiled its list of “approved” COVID-19 lateral flow test providers two days before the latest travel testing update is due to come into force. The aim of the new “simplified” system is to offer “lower-cost” tests to those who have been fully vaccinated according to Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps.
What are the rules for day two lateral flow tests?
Testing requirements will change for fully vaccinated UK arrivals from October 25.
The new rules will also apply to arrivals from “eligible” countries such as the European Union (EU) and the US.
According to the Government, under the new rules “eligible fully vaccinated passengers and those with an approved vaccine from a select group of non-red countries will be able to replace their day two test with a cheaper lateral flow test, reducing the cost of tests on arrival into England.”
Prior to this, fully vaccinated arrivals were still required to book and pay for a day two PCR test, often costing upwards of £50.
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Tests must be pre-booked and purchased from a testing provider included o. n the Government’s “approved” list.
Anyone who tests positive using a lateral flow test will be required to self-isolate and take an additional PCR test at no additional cost.
This PCR test will be provided by the NHS and will be delivered to the traveller’s home.
Anyone who received an inconclusive result will also be required to self-isolate.
Testing for unvaccinated passengers from non-red countries will continue to include pre-departure tests, day two and day eight PCR tests. Test to release on day five remains an option for those who want to reduce their quarantine period.
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Which company currently provides the cheapest lateral flow tests based on the “approved” list?
The Government has updated its list of “approved” providers under the new lateral flow testing scheme.
However, it notes this list may continue to be updated.
According to Gov.uk, they are still working to “bring the site fully online.”
Based on the Government’s current list, a firm named PeopleBio offer the cheapest day two lateral flow test costing £18.
This is a self swab to take at home.
But travel expert Paul Charles has warned Britons to do their research and be savvy before selecting the cheapest options they can find.
He said: “It’s vital to shop around and choose a low-cost but bona fide provider.”
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