The government announced yesterday (Tuesday 28 April 2020) an expansion of coronavirus testing in England to include those over 65 as well as anyone who has to leave the house to work if they are showing coronavirus symptoms. This means construction workers to emergency plumbers, research scientists to those in manufacturing - can now be tested.
Those eligible for testing now include:
- Everyone in England aged 65 and over with coronavirus symptoms can now get tested, along with symptomatic members of their household
- Symptomatic workers who are unable to work from home and members of their households with symptoms (i.e. a new continuous cough or high temperature)
In addition, the government is rolling out testing to all NHS and social care staff and care home residents – even those not showing symptoms.
Anyone eligible can book a test using the government’s
test booking website.