The testing of Islanders without Covid-19 symptoms is now underway - and quick response lateral flow tests can now be picked up at a site on the Isle of Wight.

Newclose County Cricket Ground, on Blackwater Road, near Newport is now open for Islanders to drop by and collect test kits.

You will not need an appointment and you can drop in between 12.30pm and 4.30pm, seven days a week.

Here's what you need to know about who can get a lateral flow test, how to pick one up, and what to do if you can't get there.

What is a lateral flow test?

A result from a test takes about 30 minutes. 

Taking a lateral flow test involves taking a sample from the back of the throat (near the tonsils) and from the nose, using a swab.

The swab is dipped into an extraction solution.

This is dripped on to the device's paper pad, producing a reaction that gives the result.

There is no need to send the sample to a lab.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Who is eligible for a lateral flow test?

Only people without COVID-19 symptoms (asymptomatic) can use the lateral flow tests (scroll down for what to do if you have symptoms).

  • Households with nursery, primary school, secondary school and college age children
  • Families and the childcare and support bubbles of nursery, primary, secondary and college staff
  • Adults working in the wider school community, including supply teachers, bus drivers and after school club leaders.

Who can pick one up?

Anyone aged 18 or over can collect two packs of seven lateral flow device kits (a total of 14 individual tests) per visit.

Identification is not required.

How do I use one?

Each kit comes with full instructions for use.

They explain what to do if your test result is positive, negative or void - as well as how to register your result with NHS Test and Trace.

What if I can't get to the Blackwater site?

You can make an appointment at a Community Testing Site (there are several on the Island). CLICK HERE for details of where they are.

Alternatively, you can order a home test kit online.

What happens if I test positive?

You will need to isolate and book a follow-up PCR test as soon as possible.

"An important step"

Simon Bryant, director of public health at the Isle of Wight Council, said: “Seeing everyone return to face-to-face learning is an important step on the journey towards a cautious easing of lockdown restrictions.

"We know that around one in three people with coronavirus do not have symptoms but can still pass it on to others, which is why it’s crucial we support regular COVID-19 testing for people without symptoms, to help keep our educational settings, staff and families safe.

"This ensures we can detect positive cases within households quickly, break chains of infection, and prevent the virus from spreading. I urge anyone who is eligible to take part in this free, voluntary scheme, to help keep themselves and others safe and well.

”If an eligible person is unable to collect test kits to do at home, they can book an asymptomatic test at a community testing site or order a home test kit for home delivery.

Testing for anyone with COVID-19 symptoms

Any adult or child of any age with symptoms must follow self-isolation guidance and book a PCR test via the NHS wesbite.