Students in Simcoe-Muskoka have started receiving rapid antigen tests for COVID-19 ahead of the Christmas break.
The PCR self-collection initiative builds on the existing COVID-19 take-home PCR self-collection pilot that was launched in 160 schools in September, which focuses on secondary school students who are contacts of confirmed cases and are asymptomatic and fully vaccinated.
The take-home PCR self-collection kits contain five tests, which are to be taken every three to four days, beginning Thursday, December 23rd; however, participation in the program is completely voluntary.
All private and First Nation schools have also been asked if they would like to access take-home PCR self-collection kits. Students will be able to drop off their specimens at a convenient community location, including participating pharmacies across Ontario.
The government says distributing 11 million rapid antigen screening tests to all public schools ahead of the December break will add an additional layer of protection over the holiday period and as students return to school in January.
“Providing take-home PCR self-collection kits for more students across the province will strengthen our ability to protect our kids and keep schools open and safe by limiting the spread of COVID-19. Together with the test-to-stay rapid antigen screening program being implemented, these tools will help identify cases that may otherwise be missed and reduce school closures. While we are reassured that COVID-19 transmission in schools remains low, we must remain vigilant and ready to respond to outbreaks driven by the Delta variant.”- Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Ontario.
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Students across our region have received Rapid antigen screening kits. They are one additional tool that we can use to limit the spread of COVID-19- watch this video to find out how to use the kits https://t.co/og2VijMZzB
— SMDHU (@SMDhealthunit) December 14, 2021