Asymptomatic people are putting a strain on the NHS by getting coronavirus tests says Health Secretary

By Sarah Wilson
Published 9th Sep 2020, 13:02 BST
Updated 9th Sep 2020, 13:02 BST
The health secretary has blamed asymptomatic people getting tested for driving test shortages. (Photo: Shutterstock)The health secretary has blamed asymptomatic people getting tested for driving test shortages. (Photo: Shutterstock)
The health secretary has blamed asymptomatic people getting tested for driving test shortages. (Photo: Shutterstock)

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has cited asymptomatic people getting coronavirus tests as the reason for mass shortages.

Demand for testing has soared over the past few weeks, with many getting an error message when trying to book a test or being asked to travel hundreds of miles to get one.

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Matt Hancock today blamed asymptomatic people for shortages while speaking on the Kay Burley programme, claiming that around 25% of people getting tested do not have any symptoms.

"We have seen an increase in demand including from people who are not eligible for tests, people who don't have symptoms," he said.

"You are eligible for a test if you have symptoms of coronavirus or if you have a very specific reason otherwise. We have seen an increase, and about 25% of people who are coming forward don't have symptoms and aren't eligible".