Are covid tests mandatory if your gp tells you to get one

angnryan

Hi, I had a sore throat and lost my voice and as I have copd I started coughing up yellow sputum,  gp prescribed antibiotics and steroids but said get a covid tests because of my symptoms,  I had no covid symptoms except the cough which I always have due to my copd,  I've not been out except for my vaccines since February last year and have no intention of going out anytime soon,  I sent for the lateral flow tests to be delivered but due to my mental health I'm afraid of catching covid from the test, I have a germ phobia,  and after watching a video of how to do them I don't think I could manage as my hands shake so badly,  does anyone know if it's law that you have to use them now they are here,  I'm so afraid,  can I just carry on not going out as I have been and not use the tests 

janer1967

Hi there 

The test is very easy to do and shaking hands will not affect you completing it 

I'm not sure there is any legal impact for not doing the test however if you suffer with copd and you have the virus then it is in your best interest to do the test 

Even school children are testing twice a week my son does his without any assistance 

I do get that you don't go out and that and your concerns but personally I would try and do the test 

Ross_Alumni

Hello @angnryan

I don't think there's anything that requires you to take the test by law. It will just be required for certain things like attending live events for example, however as you say that isn't something you'll be doing any time soon. 

Do you have a friend or loved one who would be able to support you to do the test? Would that help?

angnryan

I have nobody to support me,  my mental health is terrible at the moment,  my eldest son was found dead in the street a few weeks ago and since then I've gone downhill,  I've got it in my head that the test could be contaminated and give me covid, as I said I've not been out since February last year and I'm too afraid of going out in case I  do catch covid,  i don't have anyone in my house so I won't be putting anyone at risk as I don't intend to leave my house anyway and won't be going to my sons funeral either 

janer1967

I am so sorry for you loss 

Do what is best for you you are not putting anyone at risk but yourself so the decision us yours but I can't imagine the test would be contaminated every bit of it comes in sterile sealed packets 

My deepest condolences to you 

angnryan

Thank you

Ross_Alumni

Hello @angnryan

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss, such awful news. How are you coping? It might be worth speaking with your GP if you feel as though you need support for your grief at all, and your mental health. It seems as though you're going through a very hard time at the minute and I thank you for opening up about it to us.

Do you receive any support to manage your mental health? I'm sorry to hear that it's terrible at the minute but I hope you have coping techniques in place. You might find the below resources helpful at this time:

• this MHFA page about coping with loss and grief
• this information page from Mind which contains details on coping techniques
• our helpline, who you can give a call if you fancy a chat

Regarding your Covid test, there isn't a legal obligation for you to do it so of course only take it if you feel up to it at all.

I have sent you an email with some additional information, if you'd like to check your inbox  

unicorn5

Last year had covid in March 2020 lost job tested postive had to isloate for 10 days but recoverd quick then I tested again in April had a cold bust tested negative 

woodbine

@angnryan story to hear about your loss, my sympathy to you and your family.
I don't think there is a legal requirement to do the test but it is in your best interest, and as above the test kits are sterile and easy to use.

Lisatho11987777

I supose it depends on why your dr has asked you to have a covid test but it's better for you to have it ?

Cher_Alumni

Hi @angnryan

I'm so sorry to read about the loss of your son.  Grief is one of the hardest emotions, especially when it's someone we loved so dearly.  How are you managing?  And, are you feeling any better since you first posted this?  Always bear in mind that if you need us, we are here.  

Sending you lots of virtual support 

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