You can get a throat and nose swab test for whether you currently have coronavirus. This is part of the 5-pillar strategy for coronavirus testing. Testing is most effective within 3 days of symptoms developing.

Who can be tested

The following groups of people can ask for a test through the NHS website:

• anyone in England and Wales who has symptoms of coronavirus, whatever their age
• anyone in Scotland and Northern Ireland aged 5 and over who has symptoms of coronavirus

The following groups of people can access priority testing through GOV.UK:

• essential workers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
• anyone in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland over 5 years old who has symptoms of coronavirus and lives with an essential worker
• children under 5 years old in England and Wales who have symptoms of coronavirus and live with an essential worker (this test must be performed by a parent or guardian)