Boots is launching a new coronavirus testing service that can return results in just 12 minutes.
The high-speed swabs test will initially cost £120 but this could fall in price if there is enough demand.
They have proved 97 per cent accurate in trials and should be available in selected Boots stores over the next few weeks.
The service is aimed at people who have no coronavirus symptoms but want peace of mind before seeing friends and family.
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They can also be used as a private pre-flight test for travellers before flying abroad.
Boots has also launched a 48-hour testing service in 10 stores across London, Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow, with plans to extend them to more than 50 branches across the UK.
Boots chief executive Seb James said the LumiraDx devices, which quickly process swab tests to give customers same-day results, are being rolled out to help ease the pressure on the NHS.
He said: ‘Boots has supported the government’s Covid-19 testing programme from the very start and offering this new in-store service is the next step in our efforts to fight against the pandemic.
‘We hope that by offering this testing option in local community stores, Boots can help ease pressure on the NHS and the Government by providing additional access to testing and crucial reassurances for people across the UK.
‘As part of the UK High Street for over 170 years, Boots is proud to serve on the front line alongside the NHS and we will continue to do our part to support the nation’s healthcare needs during this challenging time and beyond.’
Customers who are not displaying any Covid-19 symptoms can book an in-store test through the company’s website boots.com.
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source https://metro.co.uk/2020/10/26/12-minute-coronavirus-tests-that-are-97-accurate-expected-within-weeks-13479615/