Lateral flow tests to be sent to 17,000 fan zone attendees

Rapid lateral flow tests will be sent to thousands of football fans due to visit the Euro 2020 fan zone in Glasgow.

The tests will be mailed to around 17,000 ticket holders on Monday in a bid to reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19 before and after the event.

A mobile testing bus is also now in place at Glasgow Green to provide on-site lateral flow testing.

Attendees may also be asked by marshalls at the fan zone whether they have taken a test.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf confirmed the arrangements on Sunday as he was given a tour of the facility alongside Scotland’s National Clinical Director Professor Jason Leitch.

Yousaf said: “I am encouraged to see first-hand all the mitigations in place at the fan zone which have helped to ensure that it is a low risk event. Supporters can gather here safely in a controlled environment – with necessary physical distancing and hygiene measures in place – to enjoy the football.

“I am also pleased that feedback from fans and staff so far on the arrangements in place – and the atmosphere – has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Ticket holders have already been contacted to emphasise the importance of self-testing. It is important to test both before and after the event, so we are now offering test kits to all fans attending to help minimise the risk of transmission. Additionally a mobile testing unit will be on site. Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 or whose receives a positive test result must stay away, self-isolate and book a PCR test.

“Stewards will closely monitor the site and ask a sample of attendees about uptake of testing prior to arriving, while public health advisors will continue to look at data to ensure the event is being managed as safely as possible.

“The fan zone provides a focal point for celebrations and showcases the city. We want other businesses in Glasgow, including bars and restaurants, to be able to benefit from a boost in trade as a result of the tournament.”