Serial testing for Covid-19 in nursing homes is to be phased out as vaccination has “virtually eliminated” deaths from the disease in the facilities and has significantly reduced infections. Serial testing will also be phased out in long-term residential facilities that meet certain criteria, excluding acute mental health centres. However, as vaccination numbers rise, groups representing the sector said the “time is right” to move away from the serial testing of staff, which has formed the core of the programme. Nursing Homes Ireland chief executive Tadhg Daly said ending serial testing was a “prudent move” but he warned that the situation must be monitored closely. The Government, meanwhile, is understood to be wary of plans to waive patents on Covid-19 vaccines.

Source: The Irish Times May 08, 2021 08:36 UTC