On-Island testing lab arrives in Jersey

An on-Island testing laboratory has arrived in Jersey, following a decision by the Council of Ministers.  The laboratory arrived today at 10am on the MV Musketier.

Currently, most COVID-19 tests are processed off-Island, which means results take 24-48 hours to be provided. Once fully operational, the on-Island testing laboratory will be able to process approximately 2,000 tests each day and can provide results within 12 hours, on average. 

Adding this new facility to Jersey’s testing capability will allow the Island to keep up with testing requirements, following the opening of the borders, and the move into Level 1 of the Safe Exit Framework.

The increased testing capability provided by the new laboratory will allow the Island to identify cases more quickly and speed up the contact tracing process.

On arrival, the new laboratory will remain with the Ports of Jersey for routine processing procedures. Early next week it is anticipated it will be moved to its final location where installation will begin.  

Over the next few weeks, it will be tested and validated before it comes into use in September. The Government of Jersey has signed an initial three-month contract which will take effect from the date the laboratory begins processing tests.