Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 March 2022
808. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Health if in relation to the HSE website and the instructions for symptomatic persons in relation to ordering antigen tests, his views on whether the phrasing (details supplied) is discouraging for persons with symptoms to order a test; and if his Department will consider updating this. [16561/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraChanges to public health advice in relation to testing for COVID-19 were approved by Government and came into effect on Monday, 28th February 2022.
Testing for SARS-Cov-2 is now progressively moving from extensive case finding and tracing of infection to reduce transmission, towards a focus on mitigation of the severe impacts of COVID-19 for those most vulnerable to the severe effects of the disease and those with risk factors for severe disease who may benefit from specific interventions.
As part of these changes, PCR testing for public health purposes is now advised for those most vulnerable to the effects of the disease. This includes those aged 55 years and older who have not received a booster vaccination, those with a high-risk medical condition, those who are immunocompromised, those who provide care or support for a person they know to be immunocompromised and those who are pregnant.
Antigen testing is recommended for use by asymptomatic healthcare workers identified as close contacts, and to facilitate social welfare claims related to a person’s absence from work.
These changes have been facilitated by the high level of vaccine-induced and naturally acquired population immunity in Ireland, which is mitigating the worst impacts of infection. The evolving epidemiological situation, and approach to the public health management of the pandemic, remains under continuing review.
The HSE will continue to provide access to testing according to the prevailing public health guidance in place at any particular time. Individuals who are concerned about an underlying condition and/or their level of risk in relation to COVID-19 should continue to seek advice from their GP or treating clinician.
