06/12/2025
🌡️ Winter 2025/26 Virus Surveillance – The NHS Needs Your Help!
This winter, our surgery is offering access to nose and throat swabs from volunteers with cold or flu-like symptoms. These swabs help monitor viruses like flu, RSV and COVID-19, and support the NHS in tracking how well vaccines are working.
If you or your child suspect you may have a viral infection, with symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose or shortness of breath, you can request a free viral swab to assess the cause of your symptoms. A GP appointment is not required to order a swab.
Swabs can be ordered via https://takeatestuk.com using the voucher code C88078.
This page shows you how to take the swab once it arrives with you https://takeatestuk.com/phe-home/
More information can be found at https://orchid.phc.ox.ac.uk/surveillance/information_for_patients
By taking part, you’re helping public health teams understand what’s circulating locally and plan NHS services for the winter.
Thank you for supporting community health! 🌼