Everyone over five in Wales with coronavirus symptoms can now book test

Everyone in Wales aged five and over is now eligible to be tested for coronavirus if they are showing symptoms.

Wales has joined a new UK-wide system for ordering home testing kits open to anyone with Covid-19 symptoms.

Health Minister Vaughan Gething said it is a "major step forward in increasing coronavirus testing in Wales."

Health Minister Vaughan Gething said it is a "major step forward". Credit: PA

England's Health Secretary Matt Hancock made the initial UK wide announcement on testing in the House of Commons.

This came after the chief medical officers for all four UK nations added the loss of, or noticeable change to, taste and smell to the NHS's list of coronavirus symptoms, weeks after experts first raised concerns that cases were being missed.

Anyone suffering the newly-added symptoms, or a continuous cough or high fever, should self-isolate for seven days to risk the spread of infection, and anyone they live with should stay home for 14 days.

People with symptoms will be able to apply for a home testing kit using the new UK online Portal or use a 119 phone service.

Matt Hancock has been leading England's response to coronavirus. Credit: PA

Mr Hancock told MPs testing was being expanded with immediate effect.

"I can announce to the House that everyone aged five and over with symptoms is now eligible for a test," he said.

"That applies right across the UK in all four nations from now."

A woman receives coronavirus test at drive through centre. Credit: PA

Welsh Secretary Simon Hart has welcomed Wales joining the UK-wide testing portal saying the UK is "committed to working together as four nations to overcome this devastating virus."