Get rapid lateral flow COVID-19 tests if you do not have symptoms
Friday, 24 December 2021
About 1 in 3 people with coronavirus do not have symptoms but can still infect others.
Getting tested regularly is one way to know if you have the virus. If people test positive and self-isolate, it helps break the chain of transmission and limits the spread of the virus.
Rapid lateral flow tests (LFTs) are only for people who do not have coronavirus symptoms.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms you need to book a PCR test (on gov.uk).
You should still get tested if you have been vaccinated. Even if you’re fully vaccinated, there’s still a chance you can contract COVID-19 and pass it on.
When to do a lateral flow test
Lateral flow tests are available, free of charge to everyone in Wales. If you are over the age of 11 you are encouraged to take tests twice a week (every 3 or 4 days) if you do not have COVID-19 symptoms.
You are also encouraged to take a test:
- if you are going to be in higher risk situations including spending time in crowded or enclosed spaces
- before you visit people who are at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19
- you are travelling to other areas of Wales or the UK
Reporting your results
It’s important to report your test result as soon as you can, whether it’s positive, negative or void. You can report your results on gov.uk or by calling 119. It means new outbreaks are identified and we understand how the tests are being used.
How to get lateral flow tests
Anyone who does not have symptoms can get regular rapid lateral flow tests to check for COVID-19.
The tests are free.
You can get lateral flow tests by:
- collecting from a pharmacy or a local collection point: Find your nearest pharmacy or collection point and opening times (on nhs.uk)
- by ordering online for home delivery: Order rapid lateral flow home test kits on GOV.UK. You can order 1 home testing kit (7 tests) at a time. Delivery takes 1 to 2 days
School, college and nursery testing
During term-time, if you attend or work at a school, college or nursery you will get rapid tests through your school, college or nursery.
You're advised to do a test twice a week and report the results.
During the school holidays, if you would like to continue regularly testing should continue to do so. You can get tests from the channels described in the how to get lateral flow test section.
Primary school-age children and younger do not need to test.
Employee and university testing
Some employers and universities offer rapid tests. Ask your employer or university if they provide rapid tests.