Islanders are once again unable to book PCR coronavirus tests — or order Lateral Flow Tests.
PCR appointments at Newclose Cricket Ground are not currently available — even for key workers. Isle of Wight residents are also unable to order kits to their homes.
Labour has described the shortage, which appears to be a nationwide problem, as a "total shambles".
Government advice for those wanting Lateral Flow Tests is to pick one up from a collection point or pharmacy.
COVID-19 testing appointments are currently unavailable on the IOW and on the mainland, due to high demand.
— Isle of Wight NHS Trust (@IOWNHS) December 29, 2021
If you've got COVID-19 symptoms or a positive lateral flow test, isolate until you're able to secure a test.
Check the Gov. website regularly for appointments.
However, Island pharmacists are reporting low stocks. Kits are set to be handed out in Newport, Freshwater, Cowes and Ryde later, but there is limited availability.
Issues have also been reported in other parts of the country. In Kent, Conservative MP Sir Roger Gale says there is "gridlock" with "no stocks" in chemists. He claims his colleagues at ministerial level aren't answering their phone.
Kent appears to be in Lateral Flow and PCR Test gridlock. Manston staff working flat out, no stocks in chemists and no East Kent delivery slots available. The Secretary of State in charge is not answering his phone, whilst I am trying to get help for constituents.
— Sir Roger Gale (@SirRogerGale) December 29, 2021
News of test shortages come as calls intensify to cut the isolation period to five days to protect key industries.
It follows a similar move in America.
Large numbers of staff absences are said to be badly affecting the NHS.
Hovertravel Services Remain Suspended Due To Unexploded Ordnance
Local Business Gives Back By Supporting Surf Charity
Local Energy Company Seeks Rooftops For Community Solar Projects
Who Will You Nominate For 50th Isle Of Wight Sports Achievement Awards?
Isle Of Wight Churches Launch Urgent Fundraising Appeal For Debt Help On The Island
Plans Afoot To Improve Isle Of Wight Cycling And Walking Routes
Appeal Following Report Of Assault In Cowes
Witness Appeal Following Fatal Incident On Isle Of Wight
Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Attends ‘Man In River’ Emergency
Wightlink Releases Statement Regarding Suspended Services
Changing Rooms: Shanklin Hotel Set For Upgrades
'Plagued' Ryde Farmhouse Set For Demolition
Leeson Road To Re-Open This Sunday
Supergrass, Jess Glynne And Busted Among Latest Acts Announced For Isle Of Wight Festival 2025
Inspectors Appointed For Island Planning Strategy Examination
Islanders Floating Bridge Views Sought
Two More Years Of Restoration Works Confirmed For Isle Of Wight Quarry
RSPCA Isle Of Wight Appeal Launched To Help Island's Most Vulnerable Animals This Christmas
Appeal For Information Following Assault At Crown Pub In Ryde
New Entrance And Kitchen Mooted For Freshwater Bay Hotel
