Lateral Flow Testing

Lateral Flow Testing

Students and Staff Testing

In line with the current government strategy of testing, all students at Rochdale Sixth Form College are being tested using a validated Lateral Flow Device. The first three tests will be completed in college. After the third test students will be asked to use the home testing kits, twice weekly, more information will be given to them at that stage.

All staff have been issued with home testing kits and are asked to complete them on a Sunday and Wednesday evening.

Why?

Up to a third of individuals who test positive for COVID-19 have no symptoms at all and can therefore spread the virus unknowingly. That is why the testing of those without symptoms is vital. Identifying those individuals will save lives. This is what is known as ‘rapid testing’.

Is it quick?

Swabbing and processing of tests is quick and easy, with results available in around 30 minutes. It is vital that you report every result to NHS Test and Trace on the same day you take the test and also report any positive results to the college, remembering to not attend.

The tests are safe

Lateral flow tests are very accurate, which means that only a very small proportion of people who do not have coronavirus will receive a positive result (false positive). The tests have lower sensitivity, but they are better at picking up cases when a person has higher viral load, and more contagious, hence the need to test frequently.

When used in combination with other measures such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), washing hands regularly and social distancing, these tests further reduce the risk of transmission. Easy Lateral flow devices do not require a laboratory to process the test. The devices are designed to be intuitive and require minimal training to operate.