Workforce LFT Programme Ending

Friday, 4 March 2022 11:15

Workforce lateral flow testing will end on Wednesday 16 March.

The kits won't be delivered to businesses anymore from that date.

The government says those that signed up are being contacted about the changes.

Workforce testing will still continue for staff who work in high-risk places - such as care homes and the prison.

Staff on the workforce programme are being asked to register for the home LFT testing programme instead.

Health Minister Deputy Richard Renouf wants islanders to check their Covid status before going to work.

"This is part of the shift towards personal self-responsibility as we de-escalate COVID-19 measures and enter the post-emergency phase of the pandemic.

Islanders can conveniently keep a box of LFTs at home to test themselves regularly when needed and ensure community infection is kept to a minimum."

Home testing kits will still be delivered to households for free until at least June.

Negative tests don't have to be submitted anymore unless it's to exit isolation after testing positive.

Students and school staff are still being asked to take an LFT every day.

Dr. Ivan Muscat says it's still 'reasonable' to do this to capture infection, given the school environment and the high number of children who aren't vaccinated.

"They are at greater risk of transmission and of course, if they did get infection and are unwell, they may not be able to attend school.

Doing lateral flow tests to prevent an acceleration of cases in school because those who are unwell or have LFT positive are at home and not transmitting, actually helps keep the education system going."

Hospital visitors and those going to care homes and/or the GP are being asked to continue taking LFTs.