UK to Ramp Up Coronavirus Testing to 25,000 a Day
The UK government has announced a major boost in coronavirus testing, aiming to carry out 25,000 tests daily within four weeks. Priority will go to the most vulnerable and critical cases as officials scramble to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Downing Street Pledges Massive Testing Expansion
Following a high-level meeting at Downing Street on Tuesday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock vowed to back industry leaders with full support. Their goal: supercharge testing capacity nationwide and fast-track development of immunity tests.
The PM urged companies to team up with the government to create quick tests that check if people have developed immunity. This will help get NHS and public sector staff back on duty sooner, easing pressure on frontline services.
Fast, Widespread Testing Set to Slash Wait Times
The UK is rolling out point-of-care swab tests outside hospitals, allowing those with symptoms to find out quickly if they have the virus. So far, over 50,000 tests have been completed, and the UK is on track to surpass China’s testing numbers with its new daily target.
Testing already increased from 5,000 to 10,000 daily last week. The four-week plan to hit 25,000 marks a massive jump as Public Health England (PHE) strengthens its surveillance to track the virus in the community.
Officials Stress Testing is Key to Protecting Lives
Matt Hancock, Health & Social Care Secretary: “Public safety is my top priority, and radically ramping up testing for coronavirus is a key part of our plan to protect lives. We are already among the best in the world for coronavirus testing and today we are launching a national effort to increase our testing capability even further.”
“Our aim is to protect life, protect the most vulnerable, and relieve pressure on our NHS – so it is right that we prioritise testing for those most at risk of severe illness. We will always do the right thing at the right time, based on the best scientific advice, and will do whatever it takes to protect life.”
Professor Sharon Peacock, Director of National Infection Service, PHE: “This is a timely boost to the UK’s testing capacity, which is a vital element in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. By working together with industry we can increase the country’s testing ability – allowing us to better map the spread of infection in the community and to protect our healthcare workers on the frontline of our response.”
