Professor says ‘it would be wise’ to bring back free Covid lateral flow tests

As autumn approaches, the beginning of the cold weather season is notoriously followed by a rise in respiratory illnesses . Covid has already been doing rounds around the country, as a result of poor summer weather and people flocking inside. A professor told Express.co.uk ‘it would be wise’ to bring lateral flow tests back during this time to ensure ‘early detection and control of COVID-19 cases’. Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Principal Lecturer in Public Health at the University of Bedfordshire , said: ‘If case rates and hospitalisations continue to increase in the weeks ahead, the government should start thinking about providing the public free lateral flow tests again since testing is a powerful tool in the prevention and control of infectious diseases. ‘Given that the U.S. has recently resumed offering free lateral flow tests to its citizens, it would be wise for the UK to consider doing the same, especially in light of rising case numbers.’ Professor says ‘it would be wise’ to bring back free Covid lateral flow tests. (Image: GETTY) The professor explained that the quick turnaround of results allows for the ‘immediate identification and isolation of potential cases’, which could help prevent a ‘ twindemic ‘ of flu and COVID-19. The expert’s advice comes as the latest government data reported 10,195 new cases in England in the seven days leading up to September 16. Two new variants , known as Eris and Pirola, are partially responsible for this surge, with Eris representing the majority of cases in England. Pirola has caused 37 confirmed cases so far, including a localised outbreak in a Norfolk care home and seven hospitalisations. ‘It’s crucial to ensure that you are not using an expired lateral flow test.” (Image: GETTY) In a previous interview with Express.co.uk, Bobbi Pritt, Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic , explained that the key symptoms seem to ‘remain the same’, despite the emergence of new variants. She recommended looking out for these ‘most common’ Covid signs: Headache Runny nose Sneezing Sore throat Fatigue. Dr Papadopoulos explained that the prevalent symptoms can resemble other respiratory viruses, making testing even more important. ‘The most accurate way to confirm an infection with the Pirola variant or any other strain of Covid is through testing,’ he said. Furthermore, he recommended checking the expiry date on your lateral flow test if you do decide to do one. The professor added: ‘It’s crucial to ensure that you are not using an expired lateral flow test, as this significantly increases the risk of a false result.  ‘This is another reason why it would be helpful for the government to consider providing the public free access to new lateral flow tests, as it reduces the risk of people using old tests.’ Express.co.uk has reached out to the government for comment.