Covid: Pupils urged to test before returning to school

Young people are being urged to do a rapid Covid test before they return to school after half-term. to prevent more new infections.

The UK Health Security Agency says cases among 10 to 19-year-olds are currently the highest of any age group.

People can be contagious even if they have no symptoms and are unaware that they have Covid.

Free lateral flow kits can be collected from local pharmacies if pupils do not already have them at home.

Many pupils in England and Wales return to school next week.

Anyone who has Covid symptoms or tests positive should isolate and get a confirmatory PCR test as quickly as possible.

Rapid testing and appropriate isolation can break chains of transmission and prevent the spread of the virus, especially as we enter the winter months.

Chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency, Dr Jenny Harries, said: "I am calling on all children to help themselves and each other by getting tested before going back to the classroom, so that we can stop the infection in its tracks and keep as many children in the classroom as possible, continuing their education and developing their futures.

"I want to once again thank all our teachers and those who work in schools who are working so hard to help keep children safe."

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: "As we start the countdown to Christmas, testing regularly and getting vaccinated is the best thing we can all do to protect education and make sure we can enjoy the best of the season - whether that's the school nativity or the family gathering over the holidays."