Coronavirus is a deadly infection that’s continuing to spread in the UK. But, online applications for tests has already crashed, with an error message appearing on the screen.
In response to the outbreak of coronavirus, the UK government has provided key workers, including NHS and social care staff, with a way to directly book themselves in for a COVID-19 test.
But, despite going live this morning, the government’s website for applications has already crashed.
The plan was for up to 10 million key workers, and their households, to have the option of being tested, as they continue to battle against the infection on the front lines.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed the plans to expand Britain’s testing capability.
There was a daily allowance of 1,000 kits, including swabs and instructions.
But, after being made available at 9am on Friday morning (April 24), the stock of testing kits ran out within minutes.
Key workers trying to apply for a test were greeted with an error message when trying to log onto the website.
“Coronavirus test: applications closed,” said the government’s website.
“You can’t currently register for a COVID-19 test. Please check back here later.
“If you need any information and advice on COVID-19, read our pages on coronavirus.”
Workers that did manage to get hold of a home-testing kit will be sent their swabs by the end of tomorrow.
It’ll then take around two days for the results to come back.
The test involves taking a swab of the nose, and the back of the throat.
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The swabs can be administered by someone else, or by the patient themselves.
Alternatively, key workers can visit one of the 30+ drive-through centres in the UK.
The government is aiming to open up 50 sites by the end of the month.
Mobile testing units are also being developed, and will operate out of a single regional testing site.
More to follow…
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