Patients who have suspected coronavirus can have a “spit” test to see if they have the disease, it is announced today. Until now, potential sufferers have had to undergo uncomfortable swab examinations to retrieve samples.
The current test usually involves taking a swab from the inside of their nose and the back of their throat, using a long cotton bud.
But a new system being trialled means those who believe they might have Covid-19 can spit saliva into a pot and send it away to be analysed.
More than 14,000 GP practice staff, university employees and their relatives will be among the first groups to take part in a pilot, with test kits delivered to their home or workplaces for them to complete weekly.