Covid testing is still available on the NHS for those deemed at highest risk - but advice for those with symptoms is to be sensible
When the pandemic first hit, lateral flow test kits were commonplace in every home across Scotland.
People who were concerned that they had symptoms could test themselves to find out if they have Covid and take the necessary precautions.
Today, with the virus less dangerous and prevalent, along with a successful vaccination programme, there is no longer the urgency for most people to test themselves.
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However, for people with conditions who are deemed at high risk, NHS Highland says they can still provide Covid testing for them to be able to take the necessary precautions.
People who have conditions which results in them being deemed at highest risk can order a lateral flow test online at www.nhsinform.scot
The website lists conditions of people who at highest risk which include cancer, Down’s syndrome, kidney disease, liver disease, HIV or Aids, conditions affecting immune system, brain or nerves or lung conditions or have had an organ transplant.
Anyone who tests positive can access coronavirus treatments, such as capsules or tablets or through a drip in your arm (infusion), usually in a hospital or local health centre.
NHS Highland director of health and policy Dr Tim Allison says Covid tests are available on the NHS to those deemed at highest risk. Lateral flow tests are also available to purchase privately online and at pharmacists.
He said: “The position is different now with the level of Covid much lower than it was and people generally better protected than they were.
“There is less of a need to have the specific tests.
“You only need a test if you are going to change something as a result of the test.
“Where it does make a difference is people who have problems with their immunity and could get really sick from Covid.
“They will have been told that by their specialist and will be given a stock of Covid tests or details for NHS inform that they can contact for getting a Covid test.
“The need for Covid tests are now low. If people go into hospital and they have symptoms for Covid, they will get tested for Covid.
“We are still testing people for Covid, but we do not have the access for Covid testing anywhere near at the height of the pandemic.”
Dr Allison says for most people who test positive or may think they have symptoms, the advice is to just use common sense and to stay away from anyone who they may think is vulnerable.
He said: “Like any other respiratory illness, if you have taken the test because you are vulnerable and if you are sick then you need contact a healthcare professional.
“If you had a cold and had a Covid test and it came back positive it would be advisable not to go into work.
“There are not the hard and fast rules that we had at the start of the pandemic. It is a judgement.
“If people are in the categories which need them, they are still available on the NHS.
“But if you have symptoms which are similar to having the flu or the cold, our advice is to just be sensible.”
