Advice please- do I need a PCR test?

[NCTDN]

So I've had a runny nose and sneezing for a couple of days and this has now developed into a cough.
I'm doing a lateral flow test twice weekly anyway as I work in a school and they have all been negative. But the new variants suggest that a runny nose could be a symptom. So do I need to go for a full pcr test?

@DumplingsAndStew

How many people don't bother reading the instructions before doing the LFD tests? This information is all in the instruction booklet.

Not sure what your point is here @DumplingsAndStew ? The instructions in my testing kit say that the test is suitable for both symptomatic and asymptomatic and then goes on to say, if you test negative you should "seek medical help" I find this quite vague advice.

@GeorgeandHarold66 your instructions say to seek advice if your test is negative?

I've attached a screen shot of page 3 of my instructions, and a screenshot of the page when you follow the link.

Sorry that wasn't clear, the leaflet says "Anyone with a negative test but symptoms of concern should seek medical advice" but doesn't specifically say "should follow up the lateral flow with a PCR test.

But in the first paragraph it says that the tests are suitable for symptomatic and asymptomatic, so it's not all that clear.

I'm not arguing against getting a PCR test btw, just commenting on your first ever so slightly judgy post that actually even when people have read the instructions, it's not massively clear.

@NCTDN

I think if I don't have the results through by Monday, my class will have to be off anyway as we have no one that can cover for me due to mixing of bubbles.

The pressure to turn up for work makes it harder doesn't it? Hope you get it sorted.

But in the first paragraph it says that the tests are suitable for symptomatic and asymptomatic, so it's not all that clear.

That's interesting, as none of the booklets I have in front of me say that in any way. Which version of the booklet do you have? (Should say on the back)

@NCTDN

I know it varies a lot, but my friend did a PCR on Tuesday afternoon (2pm) and had his results at 7:15 Wed morning. So fingers crossed you get yours back quickly (& that it's negative too'!)

HT's giving Teachers a hard time should be reported. It's discouraging safe practice.

Thanks @GeorgeandHarold66 I agree the booklet isn't clear. I read that post as judgy.
I also agree that the pressure to turn up for work is immense.

@GeorgeandHarold66 your HT is a dick. You’ve done exactly the right thing.

If you’re still waiting for a test result I think you can chase through 119 or maybe they’ll be able to override the system and let you book another one (I think the website blocks you if you’ve recently done one through it). My dd had a test last Sunday and we had the results back by email in eleven hours (text took a few hours longer - this is in Essex btw as area seems to make a difference).

[quote Cornettoninja]@GeorgeandHarold66 your HT is a dick. You’ve done exactly the right thing.

If you’re still waiting for a test result I think you can chase through 119 or maybe they’ll be able to override the system and let you book another one (I think the website blocks you if you’ve recently done one through it). My dd had a test last Sunday and we had the results back by email in eleven hours (text took a few hours longer - this is in Essex btw as area seems to make a difference).[/quote]
Anxious I think rather than a dick, but yes I disagree with her stance.

119 were useless, "nothing we can do until Monday, system won't let me" sigh!

Fortunately my result just came back, negative.

Hope you manage to get sorted too op.

Glad you got the negative result George

"If you have coronavirus symptoms
The most important symptoms of COVID-19 are recent onset of any of the following:

a new continuous cough
a high temperature
a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia)
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, arrange to have a PCR test if you have not already had one. Stay at home while you are waiting for a home self-sampling kit, a test site appointment or a test result. Do not use the rapid lateral flow testing service as this is only for people without symptoms. www.gov.uk/guidance/rapid-lateral-flow-testing-for-households-and-bubbles-of-school-pupils-and-staff

Results back and negative. Phew!

@NCTDN

Results back and negative. Phew!

good news!!

Good news, what a relief.