Health and social care staff urged to take lateral flow tests before every shift

Health and social care staff in Wales have been asked to take a lateral flow test (LFT) before every shift.

It comes after First Minister Mark Drakeford urged people to take LFTs before going out due to rising cases of the Omicron variant.

Wales’ Health Minister, Eluned Morgan, confirmed staff would be asked to take the tests regardless of their vaccination status or if they have previously been infected with Covid-19.

People working at hospices and special schools have also been asked to take LFTs before their shifts.

Mrs Morgan said: “They should take the test at home, using the LFTs provided by their employer, in good time before the start of their shift, to allow that shift to be covered by alternative staff member, if their test is positive.”

She added: “Daily testing in this way is more likely to identify those people who may be infectious, without showing symptoms, and before they leave home to start work. This will in turn help protect patients, service users, children and other staff members.”

Mrs Morgan said the Welsh Government is working with the sectors to implement the guidance.

While indoor care home visits will be allowed to continue over the Christmas period, all visitors aged 11 and over are required to take an LFT before visiting, as well as wear a face mask during the visit.

Last week, it was announced all nightclubs in Wales will be forced to close from December 27, while new restrictions, including for businesses and services, will be introduced.

This will include a 2m rule on social distancing in offices and putting extra measures in place to protect customers and staff, such as one-way systems and physical barriers.