Why is there a shortage of PCR test bookings? Government explains issue as demand for Covid tests soars

There have been numerous reports of people being unable to get access to a PCR test across much of England over the past 24 hours.

This comes just after the UK Government announced on Monday that lateral flow tests were not available online, something which continued into Tuesday.

Earlier on Tuesday, the government website appeared to show no availability of the PCR tests in many regions across England.

Shortly before midday, some users of the government website were being shown that there was no availability in any region in England.

Later in the day, availability seemed to improve across the country, but some areas were still short of the tests.

In London, very few tests are currently available and this is also the case in  Stockton-on-Tees.

In Bristol, Mendip and the Isle of Wight there was, shortly before 1pm, no PCR tests available.

The North West, East of England, East Midlands, West Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber regions were all showing a full availability.

By 2.30pm, almost all regions in England had PCR test availability.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the body responsible for the test rollout, were contacted by NationalWorld for a comment on the issues people in England had been facing when trying to book PCR tests. .

A UKHSA spokesperson said: “Appointments for PCR tests are available, but high demand can lead to temporary reduced availability in some areas. More appointments are made available to book every afternoon.

“Testing is playing an integral role in keeping people safe and managing the virus and we’re so grateful to everyone that’s getting tested to protect themselves, their loved ones and their communities.

“Everyone with symptoms or who is directed to get a PCR test should continue to come forward to get a test delivered to their home or at a test site.”

To check the latest availability of PCR tests in your area, visit the government website.

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