16 April 2021
Jersey students returning to overseas university will be offered a free Lateral Flow Device (LFD) test for COVID-19 at the Airport drive-through, from next week.
Following the UK announcement this week of the return to universities on 17 May, students in Jersey are now being advised to book a Lateral Flow Device test by caling the Coronaviurs helpline on (01534) 445566 or 0800 735 5566.
Up to a third of individuals who test positive for COVID-19 have no symptoms at all and can therefore spread the virus unknowingly. Therefore, this form of testing those without symptoms is vital.
Acting Medical Officer of Health Dr Ivan Muscat said: "We would encourage all students to take a Lateral Flow Test at the Airport drive-through, before they travel back to university.
"If students test positive, they will be asked to take a PCR test and must self-isolate pending this PCR result in line with the stay-at-home guidance. The turnaround time for a PCR result is now less than 24 hours. Of course, if confirmed as positive, further isolation and management is required. The incidence of infection on the Island is currently very low.
"This testing is optional, and it is not required by the UK or by universities, however Jersey's Government is responding to the recent UK guidance, which has advised students to have LFD testing in their communities before returning to university.
"We would like to thank all those involved for their commitment to these testing programmes so we can continue to keep the community safe."
Appointments will be available at the airport drive-through on:
- Wednesday, 21 April
- Wednesday 28 April
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday between 3 May and 10 May
- Wednesday, 19 May – for those students who may return later
Bookings must be made by Monday 19 April for appointments on 21 April, and by Sunday 25 April for all other appointments. Students will be asked to provide evidence of their University and return flight to the UK. Bookings can be made by calling 0800 735 5566.
gov.je