Guidance for businesses on Covid testing now updated

The guidance to employers has been updated to reflect the recent change in policy regarding the need to take PCR tests if you test positive using a lateral from test.

The new guidance is:

If any of your workers get a positive rapid lateral flow test result but do not have any of the main symptoms of COVID-19, they should report their result and self-isolate. They do not need to take a follow-up PCR test unless:

  • they want to claim the Test and Trace Support Payment
  • they have a health condition that means they may be suitable for new COVID-19 treatments
  • they are taking rapid lateral flow tests as part of research or surveillance programmes, and the programme asks them to do so
  • they are an international arrival and have a positive day 2 rapid lateral flow test

They can end self-isolation after 7 days, following two negative rapid lateral flow tests taken 24 hours apart. They should not take the first rapid lateral flow test before day 6.

              This change in the guidance is also reflected in the updated guidance to the public.