Covid testing suspended as 43,000 people given wrong results

Covid testing suspended as 43,000 people given wrong results

Covid testing in a private laboratory in Wolverhampton, UK, has been suspended after around 43,000 people were given the wrong results.

Covid testing in a private lab in Wolverhampton, UK, has been suspended after it was found that around 43,000 people were given the wrong results.

Following reports of people receiving negative PCR test results after previously testing positive on a lateral flow test, an investigation was launched.

NHS Test and Trace has estimated that 400,000 samples were processed through the Immensa Health Clinic lab in Wolverhampton, with around 43,000 people estimated to have received incorrect results between September 8 and October 12.

NHS Test and Trace is now contacting those affected to ask them to take another Covid test.

Most of the incorrect results were in the southwest of England.

In a statement, the UK Health Security Agency said: “NHS Test and Trace have suspended testing operations provided by Immensa Health Clinic Ltd at its laboratory in Wolverhampton, following an investigation into reports of people receiving negative PCR test results after they have previously tested positive on a Lateral Flow Device.

“While investigations are under way into the precise cause, NHS Test and Trace estimate that around 400,000 samples have been processed through the lab, the vast majority of which will have been negative results, but an estimated 43,000 people may have been given incorrect negative PCR test results between 8 September and 12 October, mostly in the South West of England.

“This is an isolated incident attributed to one laboratory but all samples are now being redirected to other laboratories. The number of tests carried out at the Immensa laboratory are small in the context of the wider network and testing availability is unaffected around the country.

“NHS TT is contacting the people that could still be infectious to advise them to take another test. Close contacts who are symptomatic will also be advised to take a test in line with normal practice. Anyone with Covid-19 symptoms should book a PCR test. Those with a positive LFD test should get a follow up PCR test to confirm they have Covid-19.”


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Written by

Laura Kemp

Originally from UK, Laura is based in Axarquia and is a writer for the Euro Weekly News covering news and features. Got a news story you want to share? Then get in touch at editorial@euroweeklynews.com.

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