ORDERING Covid-19 lateral flow tests on the government website has been temporarily suspended due to “exceptionally high demand”.
On Monday, thousands were unable to order rapid testing kits on the gov.uk website, receiving a message that read: "Sorry, there are no more home tests available right now.
"Try again later. Or, you can go back and try to book a test site appointment instead."
In response, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said: "Everyone who needs a lateral flow test can collect test kits - either at their local pharmacy, some community sites and some schools and colleges.
"Due to exceptionally high demand, ordering lateral flow tests on gov.uk has been temporarily suspended to fulfil existing orders."
In Brighton and Hove, lateral flow tests are available at Hove Town Hall, Jubilee Library in Brighton and some pharmacies depending on stock.
A Brighton and Hove City Council spokesman said: “Take a lateral flow test before you go to meet friends, visit relatives, or head out to busy places or indoor settings.
“Make sure your result is negative.”
Less than half an hour before the UKHSA released their statement, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there remains a "ready supply" of lateral flow tests.
It comes less than 24 hours after an announcement that daily testing would become mandatory for anyone double-jabbed who comes into contact with a Covid-19 case.
From Tuesday, those fully vaccinated should take a daily lateral flow test for seven days to slow the spread of the virus, the government said.
People will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace or via the NHS Covid-19 app to tell them they are a contact of someone who tested positive and what action they need to take.
The move comes following a significant rise in Omicron infections in the UK with the variant expected to become the dominant strain in the UK by mid-December.
The shortage of lateral flow tests could also become a bigger problem from Wednesday when, if MPs vote in favour of the new coronavirus rules, the NHS Covid pass will be made mandatory for nightclubs and venues with large crowds.
It would mean those who haven't been vaccinated cannot easily provide a negative home test as an alternative way to gain entry.
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