Jet off with a Fit to Fly Covid PCR test in Edinburgh
As lockdown begins to ease, countries and airlines alike are beginning to reintroduce travel; this is due to PCR tests such as ours, along with the subsequent Fit to Fly certification. Whether you are looking to go on your holidays, go on a business trip, or visit friends and family – we are here to make sure you are prepared. We offer a reliable Covid PCR test in Edinburgh to get you where you need to go, safely.
How does a PCR test work?
PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction, which is used to detect an active Covid infection. This is characterised by the presence of antigens. PCR tests can provide confirmation regarding whether someone has the virus very early on. The test does this through its detection of viral ribonucleic acid (or RNA), as this is found before symptoms start to show, or before antibodies form. Therefore, this method of testing is considered to be fast and efficient, thus allowing countries and airlines a greater level of control over the spread of the virus.
However, it is important to note that you should not take this test if you have Covid symptoms, or if you have experienced symptoms up to 28 days prior to the test. In the event that one of these categories describes you, you should follow Government guidance with regards to self-isolation and testing.
Moreover, this test is unable to detect the body’s immune response to Covid (antibodies).
Covid PCR testing is essential for people of all ages who are looking to travel abroad for a multitude of reasons. The majority of travellers must produce documentation detailing a negative test result in the 72 hours prior to their journey.
Due to the release of the Government’s red, amber and green travel lists, regulations will vary between airlines and countries. Therefore, we advise that you regularly check the Government and Foreign Office websites in advance of your journey.
Also, in the event that you require a PCR test, you should book in with us as soon as possible, so that you don’t get caught out.
Your safety and wellbeing is our top priority; that’s why we provide a variety of testing options tailored to your individual needs. Our testing area is completely separate from the Pharmacy itself; we follow strict PPE hygiene protocols to ensure that patients and staff alike are safe.
Ultimately, we are here to take your stress away, so that the only thing you need to worry about is enjoying your trip!
On-site PCR test
PRICE: 109
Our on-site PCR test involves one of our trained clinicians taking a swab from your tonsils (or where your tonsils used to be), as well as one of your nostrils. Your sample will then be sent to our partner lab for analysis. This can take between 24-36 hours; once ready, your results and Fit to Fly certificate will be emailed to you directly.
We also offer a home testing kit, so that you can fit your essential PCR test around your busy schedule. The test involves taking a self-swab of your tonsil area, as well as of your nostril. If you are unsure of how to carry out your at-home test, we have included the video above for further guidance. We offer convenient online ordering to suit you.
We now provide a Randox dropbox for PCR test samples, with a cutoff time of 5pm. This allows you to drop your test off at a time that is convenient for you, to work around your busy schedule.
We also offer a Saliva test, which is a more simple and comfortable self-testing method. The test merely involves collecting saliva in a sample tube. Our Saliva test is currently discounted to 105 – so don’t delay: