Objectives of The Testing

The purpose at this stage of the National Testing Programme is to test more people who do not have symptoms ('asymptomatic testing'). This is focussed on areas or people who are more likely to have coronavirus or be at risk from the disease.

New, quicker tests (known as lateral flow antigen tests) will enable us to test more people, more quickly without the need for a laboratory. This will support the economy and wider society to return to a more normal way of life.

Schools, colleges and universities are a key part of our communities, and we want to ensure they are as safe as possible for students, pupils, staff and the wider community.

Students and staff without symptoms, but who carry the virus, are likely to spread the virus to many others. By testing them, we will be able to isolate, prevent the virus from spreading and protect others.

Why is Mass Testing in Universities Critical?

• Reduce R by identifying and isolating those who are infected but do not show symptoms - Students have been shown to have high degrees of asymptomatic transmission

• Help break the chain of transmission from potentially infectious individuals

• Give confidence to students and staff when they can return home for Christmas/go about their daily lives as normal

• Enable students to benefit from in person education and interaction with peers.