High demand for coronavirus home testing kits expected as Health Minister outlines new plans

Wales' Health Minister Vaughan Gething says he expects a "high level of demand" for home testing kits over the next few days.

It follows yesterday's announcement that anyone over the age of five is now eligible to be tested if they are showing symptoms.

Speaking at the Welsh Government's daily coronavirus press conference, Mr Gething acknowledged there were some teething problems with the home-testing scheme that needed to be worked through with the UK Government.

The Health Minister also clarified other details of the Welsh Government's Test Trace Protect plan outlined below:

  • Testing in Care Homes

Mr Gething said testing will be available to all residents and staff who have not previously tested positive in homes where there is an ongoing outbreak.

He also said that testing will be offered to all symptomatic and asymptomatic staff and residents who have never tested positive for coronavirus, even where the home has not reported any cases.

The Health Minister also added that when there is an antibody test, it will be made available to care home staff.

  • Testing for Critical Workers

The Health Minister also confirmed that all critical workers in Wales who need a test should now be able to use the UK website to book a home testing kit.

He added that critical workers will also soon be able to book a slot at one of six drive through testing centres, eight mobile testing units, and 20 community testing units across Wales.

  • Testing for the General Public

On testing for the general public, Mr Gething said everyone with symptoms of coronavirus, including loss of smell and taste, can request a home testing kit using the new UK-wide website booking system.

However the Health Minister said that there will be a high level of demand for home testing kits over the first few days.

The UK Government has confirmed priority for home testing kits will be given to critical workers while it looks to increase home testing capacity for the general public.

  • Watch the full briefing here: