The Department of Health has apologised after the website set up for key workers to book Covid-19 tests stopped accepting applications due to high demand.
Health secretary Matt Hancock announced last night that all key workers and their households can book a test online if they have coronavirus symptoms.
But by mid-morning today, the part of the gov.uk website set up for key workers to book tests was not accepting new applications.
Read more: How to book a coronavirus test if you are a key worker - and who qualifies as one
The coronavirus test involves taking a swab of the nose and the back of the throat. Photo: Jacob King/PA Wire
The website, which enables people to book tests at a drive through centre or register for a home test, said: "Coronavirus test: applications closed. You can't currently register for a Covid-19 test. Please check back here later."
The Department of Health tweeted: "There has been significant demand for booking tests today.
"We apologise for any inconvenience. We are continuing to rapidly increase availability. More tests will be available tomorrow."
There has been significant demand for booking tests today.
— Department of Health and Social Care (@DHSCgovuk) April 24, 2020
We apologise for any inconvenience.
We are continuing to rapidly increase availability. More tests will be available tomorrow.
New drive-through testing centres have opened across the UK as the Government aims to carry out 100,000 tests a day by the end of the month.
One of those testing centres for hospital workers and their households opened at Watford General Hospital on Wednesday. Another drive-through facility for NHS workers has also opened at Lee Valley Athletics Centre in Edmonton.
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