The provincial government is changing the eligibility criteria for COVID PCR testing.

From now on, a limited number of people experiencing COVID symptoms will be eligible for PCR testing. Those eligible are limited to those 60 years of age or older, children under the age of 2, residents who are Indigenous, frontline health care workers who work directly with patients, anyone working in a long-term care home, transition house, or shelter, people who are pregnant, and those who are immunocompromised.

All others who are experiencing symptoms are encouraged to use a rapid test if they have them. Anyone with symptoms who uses a rapid test must have two negative tests 72 hours apart before leaving isolation. One negative test is not adequate.

Those who have symptoms and do not have access to rapid tests must stay at home until at least 24 hours after their symptoms have improved and they do not have a fever.

Meanwhile, many schools are sending additional rapid tests home with students. Up to ten extra tests will be sent home. The tests are a different brand than those previously provided when school reopened early in the new year. Families are asked to read the instructions over carefully. An instructional video is also being shared with families.