Halifax scientist shares his experience being on the frontline of testing NHS staff

Tony Fearns, who grew up in Greetland, works for the Francis Crick Institute in London as a senior laboratory research scientist, focusing on research and treatments on tuberculosis.

But the institute has refocused their efforts into tackling the coronavirus outbreak, and its academic research laboratories have been turned into a testing facility to help the NHS combat the spread of the infection.

Mr Fearns said: “By testing key workers in local hospitals, it means that professionals such as doctors and nurses who are suspected of having COVID-19 or who are self-isolating can return to the front line quicker, if they are found to be negative.

“The Crick, in partnership with University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and its diagnostic partner, have created a method for testing which is flexible, allowing for variations in technique where necessary, which should help protect it against global shortages of reagents and equipment.

“The method has been verified against national standards and we are now contributing to the national effort alongside other institutes.

“I work with a fantastic team of scientists from all over the world, and many of us have volunteered time to help with the COVID-19 testing.

“Because we’re all biosafety level three trained, it has meant we can help to train other volunteers and familiarise them with the protocols which are usually used for TB work, and which are now being used in the pipeline for COVID-19 testing.”

Mr Fearns said testing at the Crick began at the beginning of April, and there has been a steady increase in the number of samples they have received from the hospitals they’re working with since then.

“We have now also opened a drive through clinic where local hospital staff can have their samples taken by nurses,” he said.

“In the coming weeks, we hope to continue to increase the number of tests we’re carrying out to help contribute to the Government’s own targets.

“I remain optimistic about the whole situation. Everyday, scientists are one step closer to beating this disease, and It’s been great to see so many people volunteering their time and skills to help others.

“I think The Crick has really come together to show what is possible when you have a “can-do attitude”.

“On a personal note, it’s also reminded why research on Tuberculosis, and other communicable diseases, is so important.”


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