Scarlet Pimpernell wrote:
In the morning the tests would be available from Amazon or Boots for all once the accuracy verified but by the afternoon they would not be generally available and Boots had no idea what they were talking about.
I regret this highlights the way the pandemic as been handled with a string of confusing statements coupled with a lack of preparation.
I work in a frontline business, with oversight of 2,000 key workers; yesterday I was offered 500 antibody tests at £60 + VAT apiece, with delivery at the end of April. I know the supplier is legit, as I've used them before for medical devices. I would suggest that's an indication that the test is in mass production, distribution has started, and the NHS will get first dibs (rightfully so) through April - with other health and social care settings able to access end of April/beginning of May.
For any organisation on the front line, being able to work out who has had it and is now immune (notwithstanding mutations) and who isn't, will be a massive help in terms of rota planning and delivering essential services.