Covid-19 Community Testing 2021-01-12
2021-01-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns over rolling out community asymptomatic testing effectively.
What progress has been made on rolling out community testing for covid-19? I am concerned about the effective distribution and implementation of these tests in communities across England.
Community asymptomatic testing is an important tool. We have delivered over 5 million lateral flow tests to 117 local authorities that have begun testing, expanding rapidly to all remaining English authorities and collaborating with devolved Administrations on plans.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question stems from the opening of a community testing centre in Rother Valley, with concerns about accessibility for elderly individuals.
Does my hon. Friend agree that the key to both community testing and vaccine uptake is local access? Can she assure me that vaccine and testing centres will be sited appropriately, including in areas like Swallownest and Maltby?
Agreeing with the importance of local access. Ensuring people can access community testing as needed, including through vaccination centre locations.
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Assessment & feedback
specific siting assurances for Swallownest and Maltby
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
The question relates to the opening of community testing centres and the reliability of rapid lateral flow tests.
Will the Minister confirm that the rapid lateral flow tests used are accurate and reliable? Can she also welcome the opening of community testing centres around Swadlincote?
Joining my hon. Friend in welcoming Swadlincote's testing centres. Lateral flow tests are clinically evaluated, identifying two thirds of asymptomatic cases with high viral load, making them an important tool for tackling transmission.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
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Context
The question focuses on providing rapid lateral flow tests to schoolteachers to support teaching and exam conditions.
What measures can be taken to provide readily available rapid lateral flow antigen tests for schoolteachers, to enable them to continue teaching safely?
Most secondary schools and colleges have set up testing sites using lateral flow devices. Primary schools will receive weekly staff testing kits soon, enabling ongoing safety measures in educational settings.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The question addresses the issue of people not complying with self-isolation rules, particularly due to financial support gaps.
Can the Minister ensure proper support for those who must self-isolate? Why can't those testing positive via lateral flow tests apply for isolation payment or enter test and trace?
Recognising that self-isolation is essential but challenging. Introduced a £500 payment for low-income individuals unable to work from home while isolating, aiming to improve compliance with isolation rules.
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Assessment & feedback
lateral flow test result inconsistencies and support gaps
Under Review
Response accuracy