Virology Self-Swab Study at Our Practice
Our practice is taking part in a national self-swab virology surveillance study, run by the Oxford–RCGP Research and Surveillance Centre in partnership with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This study helps monitor the spread of common respiratory viruses such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV throughout the year. The results help public health teams understand how these viruses are spreading and how well vaccines are working.
Who can take part
You can take part if you’re currently unwell with:
• Flu-like symptoms (for example, fever, cough, sore throat, body aches)
• A cough, cold, or other respiratory illness
• COVID-19-type symptoms
Your symptoms should have started within the past 7 days. You do not need to wait for an invitation from the practice – anyone who meets the above criteria can take part.
There are two simple ways to join:
1. Online: Visit TakeatestUK and enter the voucher code E83016 to order your free self-swab kit
2. In person: If you have an appointment at the practice, your clinician may offer you a self-swab kit to take home. Each kit includes everything you need, plus a pre-paid envelope to return your sample.
What happens next
Your sample will be tested for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 at a UKHSA laboratory. Your results will be available to you via the NHS App approximately one week after your sample has been received.
Taking part is voluntary and will not affect your care in any way.
Find out more
For further information about this national study, visit the Oxford–RCGP Research and Surveillance Centre website: Surveillance Sampling – Information for Patients
You can also read the full Patient Information Leaflet here.
Thank you for helping support this important public health work.