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Where Can I Get a Covid-19 PCR Test & Why Do I Need One?
Some countries eased their COVID-19 testing restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers earlier this year as more and more people received the vaccines. However, proof of a negative COVID-19 test result may be required depending on your country of destination and how the Omicron strain spreads. This is applicable, especially if you are not vaccinated or are travelling with children who aren’t vaccinated. Keep reading to find out how to get your Covid PCR test in London.
If you are looking to travel and need a COVID-19 test, you may be asking yourself questions like where to find a test, the kind of test you should have, the cost of testing, as well as how long you’ll have to wait for the results.
What type of Covid PCR test in London do you need?
You might be surprised at the number of options available when it comes to COVID-19 testing. They include PCR, antigen, and antibody tests.
These tests are not the same and not all of them are applicable when travelling. This means that you should be in a position to know how to choose the test that suits your situation.
The PCR test (polymerase chain reaction) is usually the most applicable for travellers. It’s currently considered the most reliable for detecting COVID-19.
If you have symptoms:
If you experience any of the COVID-19 symptoms below, follow the set guidelines to isolate yourself and call for emergency help.
- High body temperature
- A continuous cough
- Losing your sense of taste or smell, or if they’ve changed
In the event that you are experiencing symptoms, you can order a PCR testing kit from the NHS website or get a test at your nearest centre.
Getting a Covid PCR test in London if you have no symptoms
You can also take a PCR test if:
- You’ve come into contact with an infected person, and you need to self-isolate
- Someone from NHS Test and Trace or a local medical practitioner has asked that you get tested
- You are participating in a government pilot project
- Your previous test results are unclear, and you have to take another test
- You are part of the National Response Group
Our testing service should not be used if you’ve already tested positive within the last 90 days, or if COVID-19 symptoms have appeared. In this case, as well as for anyone testing for the reasons above, you should get a test through the NHS.
The service we offer is used to indicate proof of a negative result for travel. You can order a PCR test kit from us today and use it from home. You can find more information about our Covid 19 testing and buy your kit here:
Getting a rapid lateral flow test if you have no symptoms
You can ask for a Rapid Lateral Flow test if you have not shown any symptoms, but you still want to get tested anyway.
You can find out which Covid-19 test is suitable for you if you are unsure by getting in touch with us today.
Getting tested for travel
Before you travel, check out the links below for the latest information as well as to know what to do before you travel:
Currently, you are required to take a Covid PCR test in the 2 days before you travel from England, as well as before you return. You also need to fill out a passenger locator form. Additionally, depending on your vaccination status, you must take tests and isolate accordingly once you’re back in the UK.
If you’re fully vaccinated
You are required to take a test between your arrival and the end of day 2; you must isolate until you get the results back.
If you’re not fully vaccinated
In this case, you must take 2 tests on or before day 2 and day 8. Additionally, you are required to isolate for the full 10 days regardless of your results.
What our Covid PCR test in London & across the UK involves
The PCR test involves the use of a long cotton bud to swab your nostrils and the back of your throat. This test can be used as proof of a negative result for countries/ airlines on your travels abroad, as well as before you return to the UK.
If you are 12 years of age and above, you can take the test yourself or have someone assist you. Children below the age of 11 need to be tested by their parents or guardians.
We offer in-store testing in Harrow, Middlesex, as well as PCR testing kits that can be delivered all across the UK. We even offer lateral flow testing kits with results in 2 hours for your peace of mind.
This blog post was written on behalf of Doorstep Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
