Only half of close contacts are showing up for their second COVID-19 test

Health officials said half of the people believed to be close contacts of a COVID-19 confirmed case were not ready for their second test.

People who have been in close contact with people who have been confirmed to have COVID-19 are double-checked for symptoms.

Individuals who are considered close contacts with the confirmed case are examined as soon as possible (‘Day 1’ test). And a week later they are tested again (‘Day 7’ test).

Even if both tests confirm negative, the close contact should restrict their movements for 14 days.

It comes as the Department of Health confirmed 13 more deaths and 1,269 new cases of COVID-19 in Ireland yesterday.

HSE Integrated Care Lead Dr Siobhán Ní Bhriain stated that only half of the close contacts turned up for their day 7 test. This was revealed yesterday at a meeting with the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET).

Ní Bhriain said that the positivity rate of the Day 7 test is 2-3%. The rate is low but still significant, she added. “It’s a small percentage, but nonetheless it’s people that we’re missing.”

“I know people don’t want to turn up for the test, I know it’s not pleasant, but we’re asking people to please show up for your test.”