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Aug 2022
Harrogate care boss relieved as government ends mandatory covid testing
A Harrogate care boss says she is relieved after the government announced an end to mandatory covid testing in care homes.
Sue Cawthray, chief executive at Harrogate Neighbours, said homes were now trying to adapt to the “new normal” and scrapping testing would save time.
The Department of Health and Social Care announced that routine asymptomatic testing will end on August 31 in hospitals and care homes as covid cases fall nationally.
However, testing for symptomatic cases among residents and staff and those being admitted to a home from hospital will continue.
Ms Cawthray said the ending of asymptotic testing will also be a relief for care home residents.
She said:
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The end of mandatory testing comes as the NHS is set to roll out Autumn covid booster vaccines for those aged over 75 and who are most susceptible to serious illness.
Ministers have encouraged people to take up the jab, which will be available to book through the National Booking Service ahead of a rollout starting from September 12.
Steve Barclay, health and social care secretary, said:
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