Changes to testing criterion

The criterion for testing for the COVID-19 have been changed to reduce the number of people being tested. Last week The Anglo Celt reported that local doctors were told that anyone presenting with symptoms should be referred for test, however overnight this has changed.

Under new recommendations by the National Public Health Emergency Team people seeking testing for coronavirus will have to display two major symptoms rather than one before they are referred, following a major change in how those deemed suitable for testing are selected.

Under the new regime patients will have to show fever and at least one sign of respiratory disease - such as cough or shortness of breath - before they can be referred for testing.

Up to now, patients presenting with either fever or cough were referred to the HSE, however the dramatic increase in demand saw up to 20,000 people a day seeking testing. The latest change is to address what has been described by Chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan as “unfeasible and unsustainable”.