Christmas shoppers urged to get tested
Everyone is being urged to get tested before hitting the high street for Christmas shopping.
New updated guidance on the government’s Covid advice page says the risks are high of passing on Covid-19 in ‘crowded and enclosed spaces.’
"You are at higher risk of catching or passing on Covid-19 in crowded and enclosed spaces, where there are more people who might be infectious and where there is limited fresh air."
"You may wish to take a rapid lateral flow test if it is expected that there will be a period of high risk that day."
A UK Health Security Agency spokesperson said: "About one in three people with Covid-19 do not have any symptoms but can still infect others. Rapid testing plays a critical role in uncovering hidden cases of Covid-19."
"Taking a free rapid lateral flow test before a period of high risk will give you peace of mind that you are unlikely to be infectious and able to spread Covid-19."
The spokesperson reinforced the need ‘to get vaccinated and continue to take other preventative measures.’
It echoes similar advice for people meeting up at social occasions such as Christmas functions and parties.
It is the first time the government has issued testing guidance for these types of situations.
According to latest analysis of the infection rates across the UK, 75% of local authorities posted week-on-week rises in cases during the week to 19 November.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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