Pilots of home testing for coronavirus started

The NHS has started pilots of home testing for coronavirus where NHS staff, including nurses and paramedics, will visit people in their own homes rather than them having to travel.

On 23 February it was publicly confirmed that four patients transferred from the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan had tested positive for coronavirus. They have now been transferred to three specialist NHS infection centres.

Approximately 77,000 people in China, where the virus emerged last year, have been infected and nearly 2,600 have died. No vaccine is available so far to prevent the new coronavirus and fears are growing that the coronavirus outbreak could become a pandemic as new cases are reported globally. More than 1,200 cases have been confirmed in 26 other countries, prompting more than 20 deaths.

Professor Keith Willett, NHS strategic incident director for coronavirus said: “We have started to pilot home testing for coronavirus in London, which will be carried out by NHS staff, like nurses or paramedics, allowing people to stay home rather than having to travel, which is safer for you and your family and limits the spread of infection.

“Anyone who is concerned they have signs and symptoms, should continue to use NHS 111 as their first point of contact – they will tell you what you exactly what you need to do and where necessary, the right place to be tested. People should also play their part by following public health advice – wash your hands, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when you cough or sneeze, and put used tissues in the bin immediately. I would also like to thank the NHS staff who are back in Arrowe Park ready to provide excellent care and support to the British nationals who are returning from the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan.”