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Oxford Research Surveillance Centre (RSC)

Respiratory Virus Sampling - Helping the NHS track common respiratory viruses

Our practice works with the Oxford Research Surveillance Centre (RSC), based at the University of Oxford, to help the NHS monitor the spread of common respiratory tract viruses such as:

  • Flu (influenza)
  • COVID‑19
  • RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
  • Other circulating respiratory viruses

This important surveillance helps the NHS and public health teams understand how viruses are spreading in the community and how outbreaks can be better controlled in the future.


Why am I being contacted?

Some patients may receive an SMS message inviting them to take part in respiratory virus surveillance.

You have been contacted because:

  • You are registered with our practice, and
  • You may have recently felt unwell with symptoms of a respiratory infection

Taking part is voluntary, and choosing not to take part will not affect your care in any way.


What does taking part involve?

If you have had symptoms of a respiratory infection within the last 7 days, you may be asked to complete a free nose and throat swab at home.

The process is simple:

  1. Request a free home testing kit online
  2. Complete the swab at home using the instructions provided
  3. Return the swab using the prepaid packaging

You will receive your result directly.
There is no need to contact the GP surgery about your result unless you are advised to do so.


How to order a free home testing kit

You can find full patient information about the NHS virus surveillance programme here:
https://orchid.phc.ox.ac.uk/surveillance/information_for_patients

To order a free home nose and throat swab, visit:
https://takeatestuk.com/

If you have received a voucher code by SMS, please enter the code L81081 on the website when prompted and click “Go”.


How does this help?

By taking part, you are helping to:

  • Track which viruses are circulating locally and nationally
  • Improve understanding of how respiratory infections spread
  • Support NHS planning and public health responses
  • Protect vulnerable patients and communities

Even if your symptoms are mild, your contribution is valuable.


Is my information safe?

Yes.

All samples and information are handled securely and used only for public health surveillance and research, in line with NHS and data protection standards.


Do I need to contact the practice?

No.

  • You will receive your test result directly
  • Please do not contact the surgery about the test unless you are advised to do so or need medical help for your symptoms

If you are feeling very unwell or your symptoms worsen, please seek medical advice in the usual way.


Further information

More details about the Oxford Research Surveillance Centre and how your information is used can be found here:
https://orchid.phc.ox.ac.uk/surveillance/information_for_patients

Information about the process of ordering a free home testing kit and how to use can be found here:

https://takeatestuk.com/phe-home/

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