These 'rapid' tests could help open nightclubs and theatres - but what are they and how do they work?

The Prime Minister has suggested quick testing could speed along the opening of nightclubs and theatres post-lockdown, but what are they and how do they work?
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The Prime Minister announced yesterday that they are looking at introducing ‘rapid’ Coronavirus tests to allow a quicker, and safer, return of mass gatherings after the current nationwide lockdown.

Boris Johnson told a Downing Street news conference that a ‘rapid’ lateral flow test could help open "those parts of the economy we couldn't get open last year".

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He added: "That, in combination with vaccination, will probably be the route forward.”

Lateral flow tests could help nightclubs to open sooner, says the Prime Minister. Picture of the Viper Rooms in SheffieldLateral flow tests could help nightclubs to open sooner, says the Prime Minister. Picture of the Viper Rooms in Sheffield
Lateral flow tests could help nightclubs to open sooner, says the Prime Minister. Picture of the Viper Rooms in Sheffield

‘Those parts’ is expected to include nightclubs and arts venues, such as theatres and gig venues; all parts of the economy that would usually be thriving and have been hit drastically by the pandemic.

Now, the lateral flow tests could turn around results within only 30 minutes, allowing them to be administered outside venues to find out whether a customer is positive for the virus, and could thus be turned away from the venue.

What is it and how does it work?

Lateral flow tests are quick and convenient tests that can show results within only 30 minutes and do not need to be processed in a lab.

Lateral flow tests could be introduced after lockdownLateral flow tests could be introduced after lockdown
Lateral flow tests could be introduced after lockdown
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The test is taken by dipping a nose and throat swab in a solution before dropping that fluid onto a plastic stick.

The Gov.uk website states that they ‘are confident that they can detect large numbers of individuals in a rapid and timely manner’, and would help detect coronavirus from customers of nightclubs and theatres, even if they haven’t shown symptoms.