Record level of alcohol deaths recorded during COVID-19 pandemic
Record level of alcohol deaths recorded during COVID-19 pandemic
22 March 2021
Deaths caused by alcohol consumption hit a new high during the first nine months of 2020, new figures for England and Wales show.
Between January and September, 5,640 deaths were registered with this cause – an increase of 16% on the same period in 2019. This significant increase has been the highest recorded figure since records began in 2001. The high rates spanned the period during and after the first national COVID-19 lockdown, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics.
As in past years, rates of male alcohol-specific deaths were twice those seen for women. Experts say the coronavirus pandemic will have had little effect on how the data was gathered and recorded. But it is not clear how much it may have contributed to the deaths.
A spokesman for ONS said:
“Today’s data shows that in the first three quarters of 2020, alcohol-specific deaths in England and Wales reached the highest level since the beginning of our data series, with April to September, during and after the first lockdown, seeing higher rates compared to the same period in previous years.”
“The reasons for this are complex and it will take time before the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on alcohol-specific deaths is fully understood.”
Effects of Alcohol
Alcohol’s impact on your body starts from the moment of consumption. While an occasional glass of wine or beer isn’t a cause for concern, the cumulative effects of drinking beer, wine or spirits can take its toll.
Excessive consumption can impact various parts of the body. Effects can range from weakening of the immune and digestive system, to inflammation and sugar level issues.
Our ‘Effects Of’ Series provides a range of educational posters that ca be displayed in workplaces. Click here to view them.
Did you know that alcohol misuse at work can:
Breath Testing in the Workplace
Handheld breathalysers are an ideal device for conducting workplace alcohol testing. Quick and easy testing provides an instant readout of the donor’s breath alcohol measurement. Simply compare the reading to the cutoff defined in your own drug and alcohol testing policy.
Breathalyser devices gauge blood alcohol content (BAC) by measuring deep lung air. This type of testing can accurately determine whether a person has recently consumed alcohol or is currently over the legal or pre-determined limit. Breathalyser calibrations are maintained in accordance with the manufacturers specifications and periodically accuracy checked to ensure results are accurate and reliable.
How Randox Testing Services can help
At Randox Testing Services, we are pleased to offer a range of stand-alone alcohol tests or combinations of tests to meet your needs.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, RTS have continued to provide drug & alcohol testing services. At all times, we have ensured our staff are equipped to provide sensible advice and flexible solutions to drug & alcohol testing.
Whether for use in workplace settings or for use in court proceedings for medico-legal cases, our range of alcohol testing methods will provide you with accurate and reliable results at competitive prices.
For more information on our alcohol testing services, or to request a quote, contact us using any of the below details.
Website: www.randoxtestingservices.com
Email: testingservices@randox.com
Phone: +44 (0) 28 9445 1011
For those who’ve beaten addiction in their own lives Rehab 4 Addiction is a free addiction helpline. Click here.
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SARS-CoV-2 Neutralising Antibody Test
SARS-CoV-2 Neutralising Antibody Tests
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Measuring neutralising antibodies to Wild Type (Wuhan) & Delta variants following vaccination or natural infection
Accurate indicator of protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 variants
- Determine if an effective antibody response has been generated to circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants following vaccination or natural infection
- Identify individuals with a sub-optimal vaccine response to inform eligibility for booster vaccination
- Provide accurate estimates of herd immunity at a local and national population level
The Randox CE marked SARS-CoV-2 Wild Type Surrogate Virus Neutralisation Assay (EV4454) and Delta SARS-CoV-2 Surrogate Virus Neutralisation Assay (EV4477) detect antibodies that block interaction of the spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).
Rapid, high throughput tests that measure neutralising antibodies against circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants are of significant interest to Clinical, Pharmaceutical, Government and Research organisations. Vaccine breakdown is of growing concern globally with the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants such as the now dominant Delta strain. Randox have available innovative testing solutions to accurately measure protection against infection and to identify individuals where booster vaccination is required. This can help reduce infection rates and onward virus transmission by ensuring sufficient levels of herd immunity.
Ordering Information
| Assay | Cat Code |
|---|---|
| Wild Type SARS-CoV-2 Surrogate Virus Neutralisation Assay | EV4454 |
| Delta SARS-CoV-2 Surrogate Virus Neutralisation Assay | EV4477 |
| Evidence Investigator Analyser | EV3602 |
Available Platform
Evidence Investigator
Specificty of 100% and sensitivity of 98% compared ro coventional virus neutralisation tests
Semi-automated solution suitable for medium to high throughput testing
Direct sample addition to biochip well. No off-board sample incubation required
Results available in 1.5 hours without the need for biosafety level 3 cabinet
Limited sample volume requirements
Comprehensive immunoassay and molecular test menu available
Randox Clinical Laboratory Service (RCLS)
RCLS specialise in offering an esoteric biomarker testing service, utilising the experience and knowledge Randox has built over 40 years of producing high quality in vitro diagnostics.
RCLS strive to provide a clinical laboratory testing service to meet the time sensitive, bespoke requirements of research and clinical trial projects globally.
Accredited laboratory service
Cost effective solution
Offers greater flexibility
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our COVID-19 Monitoring & Management page
Related Products
EVidence Investigator
SARS-CoV-2 RBD & NP Array
COVID-19
COVID-19 Disease Management
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antigen Testing Pilot Study from Randox Quality Control
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antigen Testing Pilot Study
12 March 2020
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antigen Testing Pilot Study
Randox, in partnership with QCMD, is pleased to announce a new QCMD EQA pilot study for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antigen Testing. This new pilot is designed to evaluate a laboratory’s ability to detect SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) antigen and will provide an opportunity to assess performance against an international peer group.
QCMD is a world leading EQA / Proficiency Testing (PT) provider, dedicated to improving the quality of molecular diagnostic assays used in the detection of infectious diseases. With an extensive database of over 2000 participants in over 100 countries, QCMD is one of the largest providers of molecular EQA in the fi eld of infectious disease testing.
Features & Benefits
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Whole PathogenAvailability of whole pathogen samples containing the entire viral genome, ensures commutability with the majority of commercial assays.
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Smart-Phone App Results SubmissionResults can be returned via a smart-phone app so that participants using lateral flow devices can provide pictures of their device/result with the phone camera.
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Comprehensive ReportsA real-time rapid report will be provided on submission of results. An individual report is received after each challenge, summarising laboratory performance in comparison to an international peer group.
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EQA Management SystemIT EQA Management System (ITEMS) provides an online tool to easily manage all EQA activities from programme registration to submission of results and provision of EQA reports.
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Not infectiousSamples containing SARS-CoV-2 antigens are inactivated and not infectious ensuring safe handling of material.
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Suitable for Point of CareSamples are supplied liquid ready-to-use ensuring they are ideal for use at the point care.
For more information visit https://www.randox.com/qcmd-sars-antigen-testing/
For further enquiries please email marketing@randox.com
QCMD
QNOSTICS
CORONAVIRUS
11th March 2021: 11 million tests on the National Testing Programme
11TH MARCH 2021: THE 11 MILLION MILESTONE
We are pleased to let you know that on 11th March 2021, Randox processed its 11 millionth sample within the UK COVID-19 National Testing Programme.
That’s an incredible 11 million samples processed by our dedicated and talented staff.
Our staff are our best asset and have risen to the challenge this pandemic has created.
They have worked hard and flexibly, been creative and innovative, and pulled together as a team to make an impact in the fight against COVID-19.
We are very proud of their efforts and teamwork.
Let us once again say thank you to each and every member of Team Randox, for the efforts they have made.
What we do at Randox remains vital to the national and global management of COVID-19 and our work is making a real and positive difference.
We continue to work hard and improve, for the sake of our family, friends and communities.
For further information please email randoxpr@randox.com
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Randox launches COVID-19 Testing Drive-Through at Dun Laoghaire Harbour
Randox launches COVID-19 Testing Drive-Through at Dun Laoghaire Harbour
03 March 2021
Randox launches COVID-19 Testing Drive-Through at Dun Laoghaire Harbour
A €99 Express COVID-19 Testing Service launches this week in a new Drive-Through Testing Centre at Dun Laoghaire Harbour.
The testing service from Randox, a laboratory partner in the UK’s National COVID-19 Testing Programme, utilises a robust and reliable method of testing known as PCR, which is currently the only method of COVID-19 testing recognised and approved by every country worldwide.
The launch of the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Drive-Through, which offers rapid next day delivery of results, can be used for pre-departure screening, on-arrival testing to reduce quarantine timeframes, or simply for peace of mind.
Sophie Boyd, Project Manager for the Randox COVID-19 Testing Service, explained;
“In addition to our Travel Centres in Dublin, Limerick, Sligo and Galway, we are pleased to open our new Drive-Through testing service in Dun Laoghaire, to serve South County Dublin with our accurate and cost-effective COVID-19 test.
“Whilst restrictions and guidance during the pandemic continue to evolve, testing will remain a key part of the response to COVID-19 – not only to identify outbreaks, isolate cases and prevent further spread, but also to assist with a return to social and economic normality.”
Ireland is currently part of the EU ‘traffic lights’ system which coordinates international travel, meaning that anyone leaving Ireland, currently orange on the traffic light scale, can avoid quarantine on arrival if they obtain a negative PCR test result before departure.
Those arriving in Ireland – depending on their departure country – may be able to reduce their on-arrival quarantine timeframe by taking a COVID-19 test no less than 5 days after arrival.
Sophie continued;
“The Randox Health COVID-19 testing drive-through at Dun Laoghaire Harbour is another positive step towards the normalization of travel and other social activities, for the residents of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown and across South County Dublin.
“Anyone who is interested in booking a test can do so at the Randox Health booking website, and will have their results returned to them the next day.”
The Randox €99 Express COVID-19 Testing Service is open to all asymptomatic individuals and operates from the Randox Health Drive-Through at Dun Laoghaire Harbour.
Randox Health PCR Testing is also available at Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport, and in Leopardstown Dublin, Limerick, Sligo, Cork and Galway.
Visit booking.randox.ie to book your appointment.
Randox Health offers a range of COVID-19 testing services for fit to fly, test to release, workplace testing or simply for peace of mind.
Order a home sample collection kit, book an appointment at a Randox Health Travel Centre (available in the UK and Ireland) or visit a Randox Mobile Laboratory (located at Heathrow and Liverpool Airports).
COVID-19 antibody testing is available in Randox Health Clinics.
Want to know more about Randox?
Contact us or visit our homepage to view more.
Our COVID-19 Products and Services
HOME TEST
ANTIBODY TEST
TRAVEL CERTIFICATE
LABORATORY TOOLS
Approaching the Fundamental Impact of STIs Worldwide
02 March 2021
The Global Economic Burden of STIs & The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Health Whitepaper Download
Sexual Health encompasses; genito-urinary medicine, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, contraception, psychosexual medicine, abortion services, teenage pregnancy and sexual and reproductive health. It is delivered in various settings, providing care across specialised services as well as through primary and third sector organisations.
Sexual and reproductive health is a fundamental public health issue and is clearly recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO). This whitepaper focuses on the profound impact of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide with WHO reporting that more than 1 million STIs are acquired every day (WHO, 2020).
The whitepaper discusses issues such as antimicrobial resistance, in particular gonorrhoea, and the challenges faced in a social and public concept due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Want to know more about Randox?
Contact us or visit our homepage to view more.
Our COVID-19 Products and Services
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ANTIBODY TEST
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LABORATORY TOOLS
COVID-19 Antigen Testing launched at Dublin Airport
COVID-19 Antigen Testing Service launched at Dublin Airport
22 February 2021
Travelling to a country that requires antigen testing?
Antigen Testing is the fastest and cheapest of all lab tests for COVID-19 and is now available at our Dublin Travel Centre for just €49. Testing is conducted using a nose and throat (nasopharyngeal) swab with your results available within 1 hour.
Sometimes called a ‘lateral flow test’, it will reveal if a person is currently infected with a pathogen such as SARS-CoV-2 – the virus that causes COVID-19. Unlike a PCR test (which detects the presence of genetic material) antigen tests detect proteins or glycans, such as spike proteins found on the surface of the COVID-19 virus.
Paul Turnbull, Randox Global Business Manager says;
“When it comes to travel, we started to see more and more countries across Europe state that they would only accept a negative PCR result and that has remained the case, as countries only want the most sensitive technology. Some countries however, such as the Netherlands, Germany & Sweden, require antigen testing as a secondary test before entry.”
Antigens remain in the body during infection and disappear once the COVID-19 infection has gone, so testing for antigens can identify those who whilst asymptomatic, are currently infected with, and could still be spreading the virus. It is thought that around 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 do not have symptoms, so a test that rapidly detects these otherwise hidden cases is a very useful additional tool for tackling the virus.
It is important to note that no test is 100% accurate and all tests have limitations. The preferred testing for COVID-19 is still the gold standard PCR testing due to its high sensitivity methodology. PCR testing requires samples to be sent back to our COVID-19 laboratory in County Antrim, which is why it can take up to 24hours to receive results for a PCR test, as opposed to 1 hour for antigen testing.
The Randox Health Dublin Airport Testing Centre offers both PCR and Antigen testing for travel and peace of mind.
Before booking an antigen testing appointment please confirm with your destination that this method is accepted as a means for entry. If flying the same day, please book your test 4 hours before your flight departure time.
Visit booking.randox.ie to book your appointment.
Randox Health offers a range of COVID-19 testing services for fit to fly, test to release, workplace testing or simply for peace of mind.
Order a home sample collection kit, book an appointment at a Randox Health Travel Centre (available in the UK and Ireland) or visit a Randox Mobile Laboratory (located at Heathrow and Liverpool Airports).
COVID-19 antibody testing is available in Randox Health Clinics.
Want to know more about Randox?
Contact us or visit our homepage to view more.
Our COVID-19 Products and Services
HOME TEST
ANTIBODY TEST
TRAVEL CERTIFICATE
LABORATORY TOOLS
The race that never was: 2020 Randox Health Grand National trophy is unveiled at 2021 Weights event ā with a special tribute to the late Rose Paterson
16 February 2021:
The race that never was: 2020 Randox Health Grand National trophy is unveiled at 2021 Weights event – with a special tribute to the late Rose Paterson
The trophy for the 2020 Randox Health Grand National – the race that never was – has been unveiled today during the 2021 Weights event, with a special tribute to the late Rose Paterson.
Shown to the public for the first time during the event which was shown live on Racing TV, the 2020 trophy was designed by silversmith Cara Murphy, who like Randox, is also from Northern Ireland. The design reflects Randox’s commitment to better healthcare through improved testing.
Having made the trophy in 2020, Cara has since been commissioned by Randox to update the design with a delicate silver rose on its edge, to honour the memory of Aintree Chairman Rose Paterson.
Dr Peter FitzGerald, Randox Managing Director, commented;
“It is very fitting that this wonderful trophy should be shown now, at a time when we all have a better understanding and appreciation of diagnostic testing, as a result of the terrible COVID-19 pandemic.
“But I am particularly pleased that with its unveiling, we can pay tribute to the remarkable Rose Paterson. Rose, in her role as Chairman of Aintree, had remarkable vision and energy and achieved so much for the racing public, for the owners, trainers and jockeys and, most importantly, for equine welfare.
“She was a wonderful person to know, both personally and professionally, and really made a lasting mark at Aintree. She will be greatly missed and we extend our deepest sympathies to Owen and the whole family.”
Designed in solid silver, the 2020 trophy, which features unique and intricate stands of gold proteins and antibodies held within a 50cm diameter circle, differs to that of its 2017, 18 and 19 counterparts by way of its shield-like shape.
Encircling the outside of the shield is the Biochip – Randox’s proprietary technology for diagnosis of ill-health and disease – and a red enamel roundel is positioned in the logo, symbolising a drop of blood which enables Randox to carry out a range of innovative tests.
Silversmith Cara Murphy commented;
“Little did I know when I began researching Randox’s testing capabilities, that it would go on to play such a prominent role in the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and that words like testing and antibodies would now be used so regularly in everyday conversation.
“Almost a year since the trophy was completed and things have changed so significantly – but I was honoured to have the opportunity to commemorate the life of Aintree Chairman Rose Paterson in the update we have made to my design.
“The 2020 trophy has been a fantastic project to work on, and a great Northern Ireland collaboration between Randox and myself.”
As in previous years, the 2020 Randox Health Grand National trophy is accompanied by miniature team trophies. In their first year as sponsor, Randox introduced the concept of presenting the entire winning team with a trophy, to celebrate the combined effort that goes in to achieving such a special victory. In both 2018 and 2019, they went to Tiger Roll’s winning team; trainer Gordon Elliott, jockey Davy Russell, and groom Louise Dunne.
A new charity in honour of the life of Rose Paterson, The Rose Paterson Trust, is due to be launched at the Randox Grand National in April 2021.
For further information or to organise interviews please email Amy Millar in the Randox PR team on randoxpr@randox.com or phone 028 9442 2413.
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Randox processes 10 millionth test and details investment in testing capacity
11 February 2021:
RANDOX PROCESSES 10 MILLIONTH COVID-19 TEST AND DETAILS INVESTMENT IN TESTING CAPACITY
Randox today confirms that it has processed its 10 millionth sample for the UK’s COVID-19 National Testing Programme, making it the first Pillar 2 testing laboratory to achieve this milestone. This achievement is based upon a £85 million investment since March 2020 in facilities and equipment at Randox’s laboratories in Northern Ireland.
As a key partner laboratory from initiation of the UK’s National Testing Programme in March 2020, Randox quickly ramped up its testing capacity. Randox’s response has involved recruitment of over 850 new staff , the building and equipping of over 80,000 sq ft of new molecular laboratory space and the development of new innovations in testing technology. These efforts have seen Randox’s COVID-19 testing capacity grow from 150 tests per day in March 2020 to over 120,000 samples per day today, making Randox the largest throughput laboratory in the UK and Ireland and amongst the biggest in Europe.
Randox Founder and Managing Director, Dr Peter FitzGerald, said:
“This milestone is an incredible achievement and testament to the dedication and hard work of our teams, who have pulled together at a time of national crisis and whose non-stop efforts are vital to enable the country to return to both social and economic normality.
“We will continue to build our capacity and develop new cutting-edge testing equipment to support the fight against COVID-19. We’ve all learnt from this pandemic the importance of early and accurate testing and Randox is committed to investing in diagnostic technology to meet future health challenges.”
Contact information:
For further information or to organise interviews please email Amy Millar in the Randox PR team on randoxpr@randox.com or phone 028 9442 2413.
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We Are Randox | How Laura became a COVID-19 Laboratory Manager
11 February 2021
We Are Randox | How Laura became a COVID-19 Laboratory Manager
Randox is a key partner laboratory in the UK Government’s COVID-19 Testing Programme.
For an idea of what it’s like to be part of the COVID-19 testing programme at Randox, we spoke to Laboratory Manager Laura Cummings.
Laura spoke to us about what a typical day in our laboratories looks like, the career path she took to her current role, and how it feels to be making a difference in the global fight against COVID-19.
Name: Laura Cummings
Job Title: Laboratory Manager
Department: COVID-19 Laboratories
Can you describe a typical working day in the Randox COVID labs?
As the UK and Ireland’s largest COVID testing facility, Randox is critical to the national response to the pandemic. We run up to 120,000 daily tests for the UK Government’s National Testing Programme so the timely release of accurate and reliable results is key. We have a big focus on quality and are always looking for ways to improve our policies and processes. We have, for example, introduced a range of innovative robotic systems which automate the unpacking and racking of samples before they get tested by our scientists. All this takes very active management.
What are the main duties of your role?
Our staff work 24|7 and my role as a Laboratory Manager is to make sure that they have everything they need to do their job. I ensure that the lab runs smoothly, provide solutions for any issues that may arise, and monitor the performance of the testing process.
What has been your educational route to this post?
I studied Biological Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast and then worked in England for a few years, in an organic chemistry lab. I was really fortunate to be able to move back home, and find a job not just in my field of science, but in a company that has made such an impact in the fight against coronavirus. I’m very grateful that the team at Randox have recognised my skills and achievements and given me valuable opportunities for career progression, including my recent promotion to Manager of one of the COVID labs.
How does your work as a COVID Laboratory Manager make the world a better place?
I’m proud to be directly involved in COVID testing, which plays such a vital role in the effort to contain and reduce the spread of the virus, and to be making a difference for the sake of our family, friends and communities. We recently reached a key milestone in reporting 9 million COVID-19 tests to the National Testing Progamme – and by the time you read this we will be closing in on 10 million.
What do you really like about your job?
Randox has employed more than 850 new staff into the COVID labs, and to work with and learn from such a diverse and multi-disciplined team has been really rewarding. Everyone has risen to the challenge this pandemic has created and I am proud of how we have all pulled together as a team in a time of great need.
What is your perception of future career prospects in the diagnostics industry?
I think the future of the diagnostics industry is very bright and those thinking of a career in this area should definitely get involved. In setting up the Randox COVID labs we have done something which was never seen before in terms of infrastructure, capacity, and service, and across society there is an improved understanding of the importance of testing. I believe that this, coupled with further advancements in technology, will be a catalyst for more personalised healthcare individually tailored to each patient.
We are delighted to have Laura with us at Randox as part of our COVID-19 testing programme.
For current vacancies at Randox please visit randox.getgotjobs.co.uk
For more We Are Randox stories about our amazing colleagues, make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and follow the hashtag #WeAreRandox.
For further information please email recruitment@randox.com or phone 028 9442 2413.
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Contact us or visit our Randox Careers