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Government approves saliva-based test for travellers

Covid-19 test provider Halo has launched a ‘Day 2 and 8’ testing service for international arrivals in the UK, following approval from the UK government.

Halo’s tests cost £89 each, including door-to-door courier and pick-up, 24-hour test analysis from arrival at lab, and app-based results and verification.

The biotechnology company said they are the first Day 2 and 8 tests available in the UK to be saliva-based.

Under the government’s new traffic light system, arrivals from green list destinations need pre-departure and return tests on day two, while those returning from amber countries also need a test on day eight.


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Halo’s saliva-based PCR test means travellers do not need an uncomfortable swab procedure or appointment with a medical professional.

Following the test, users can track its progress via the Halo app and results are uploaded to the app.

Users also receive a secure verification certificate which can be downloaded, printed or stored for proof of test.

Jonathan Biles, founder and chief executive at Halo, said: “With our new Day 2 and 8 test service, we will provide British travellers with a painless, safe, reliable and cost-effective way to approach travel.

“With a test success rate of over 99%, our own first-class lab at Imperial College London and a UK-based customer support team operating 24 hours a day seven days a week, we pride ourselves on offering the most complete, best-value testing service available

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