Follow-up PCR tests have been scrapped for asymptomatic people in England who have already tested positive on a lateral flow, it was confirmed today.
Following reports this morning suggest that PCR tests could be scrapped, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed the news - saying that a follow-up PCR will no longer be required to officially enter isolation as of 11 January.
At present, people without symptoms who test LFT positive are asked to order a PCR test, and are then told to only begin their isolation period when they get the PCR result, which effectively requires them to isolate for longer than seven days.
Awaiting PCR results is said to be a cause of delay to the official start of isolation for hundreds of thousands of people.
Growing delays in getting PCR test results have also been widely reported across the UK.
The announcement by the UKHSA today comes after Health Minister Gillian Keegan this morning said that there is likely “about a million people” currently in self-isolation across the UK right now, after official figures released yesterday showed that the UK recorded 218,724 positive cases over COVID-19 in the latest 24-hour period.
Follow-up PCR tests are no longer required for asymptomatic people who test positive on lateral flows / Credit: Flickr (Tom Wolf)
People experiencing the three official COVID symptoms, which are a high temperature, a new, continuous cough and a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – will still be expected to get a PCR, however, but for those who don’t not show any of those symptoms when the LFT shows positive, will not have to get a follow-up PCR, the UKHSA has confirmed.
This change would allow those who are asymptomatic – about 40% of cases – to return to work more quickly.
According to the UKHSA, this change is just a “temporary measure” while COVID rates remain high and continue to rise across the UK and will free up capacity in laboratories for PCR tests for those who do have symptoms.
Awaiting PCR results is said to be a cause of delay to the official start of isolation for hundreds of thousands of people / Credit: StockSnap
People who test positive on lateral flow tests will still need to isolate for at least seven days, and register their positive results.
“While cases of COVID continue to rise, this tried and tested approach means that LFTs can be used confidently to indicate COVID-19 infection without the need for PCR confirmation,” explained Dr Jenny Harries – Chief Executive at UKHSA.
“It remains really important that anyone who experiences COVID-19 symptoms self-isolates immediately,” she concluded.
As women around the world swoon over Jacob Elordi, he's too busy loving rocks and sheep.
In case you haven't been on social media over the past week and managed to avoid the influx of paparazzi images, the hotly anticipated 'Wuthering Heights' adaptation is out soon and with that comes heaps of red carpets, screenings and glamorous premieres.
Famously set against the brooding hills of Yorkshire, Wuthering Heights by our very own Emily Brontë follows the tumultuous love story of Heathcliff and Cathy.
Played in the upcoming film by Australian heartthrobs Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie.
During the recent London premiere where Elordi was seen wearing a rather dashing green three piece, the stars were asked what they thought the 'sexiest' thing about Yorkshire is by HitsRadioUK.
A valid question to which Jacob replies "rocks and sheep". I mean, he's got a fair point.
Margot Robbie went into a little more detail, she said "Sunrise and sunset in Yorkshire is a pretty dramatic experience. The sky is literally like red and orange. I honestly couldn't believe it when I was out there. The landscape is stunning."
Why thank you Margot, we absolutely agree. She continues to shower us with compliments stating that the "People are lovely. Pubs are great. I love it"
It seems like Margot has got Yorkshire pretty bang on there, and if she ever needs any pub recommendations then we'll absolutely help her out.
Jacob on the other hand, we know rocks and sheep are sexy but...have you ever met us?
Hopefully he fell in love with our county enough to come back, as we wouldn't mind bumping into him on a hike up the Yorkshire moors.
Popular Leeds gaming bar announces immediate shock closure after going into liquidation
Clementine Hall
Point Blank in Leeds city centre have suddenly closed after going into liquidation.
The popular gaming bar hasn't been open all that long, and was marketed as the country's first simulated shooting range bar.
Despite being a popular attraction since opening last year, the bar has closed immediately, unable to honour any future bookings.
Point Blank confirmed late this Tuesday 3 February that it had sadly entered liquidation, describing the move as “completely unforeseen and beyond our control.”
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Up until just a few days ago, the Point Blank branch in Leeds had been promoting events including happy hours, shooting experiences, and even a Superbowl event scheduled for next Sunday 8 February.
A statement on their website reads: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Point Blank Shooting has entered liquidation.
"This situation was completely unforeseen and beyond our control. Due to our Manchester landlord entering administration, our lease was lost as part of that process. This had a serious knock-on effect across the wider business, leaving us with no other option.
"After seven incredible years of trading, this is a devastating moment for everyone involved at Point Blank.
"If you currently have a booking with us, we are working closely with the relevant parties to gain clarity and provide answers. We kindly ask for your patience while this process is ongoing.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years — hopefully this is a see you later, not a goodbye."
The Hoot -
5th January 2022 
