Warning issued over lateral flow test common mistakes

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Lateral flow testing is as important as ever as Scots are no longer required to take a PCR test to confirm a positive Covid result.

Isolation is required if lateral flow tests(LFTs) identify the virus with LFTs also required if isolation is to end after the seven-day window.

However, there are some who continue to make mistakes when taking lateral flows. There are certain pitfalls and experts have issued an urgent warning to ensure we are all taking the tests correctly - reports Birmingham Live.These mistakes include failing to spot a positive result, not reading the instructions correctly, and mixing up the best way to carry out the test.The doctor explained, “Failing to spot a positive test...“Any positive line within 30 minutes, even if it is so faint that it is barely visible, equals a positive result.“However, if a faint line appears after 30 minutes, this can be ignored.”Secondly, he said “You should always follow the enclosed instructions,"“If the test advises doing a throat and nose swab, do this.

If it advises a nose swab only, do this.“That being said, there are some anecdotal reports of people getting a positive throat swab and a negative nose swab, and later developing symptoms and a positive PCR.”He added some advice you should follow before carrying out the test: “Don’t forget to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes before, to blow your nose and to wash your hands!”It is important to do this to avoid any contamination caused by food and drink that could result in an incorrect test result.