But I think there are some risks.”The two rapid tests use different technology, and the province is deploying them in different settings. Six long-term-care operators are receiving the rapid tests to “help inform future deployment across the sector,” according to the health ministry. Both McGeer and Allen cited preliminary data collected by Toronto researchers that found rapid antigen tests missed more than half of cases in a long-term-care-home outbreak. Ontario’s deployment of rapid antigen tests reflects that thinking, putting Panbio in the hands of employers and LTC operators for regular screening, rather than outbreak management. Ontario’s rapid tests “are anything but game changers,” said Sinha, director of geriatrics at Sinai Health and the University Health Network.

Source: thestar November 27, 2020 09:56 UTC