Discussions ongoing over rapid testing in schools – Education Minister

The Education Ministry is in discussion with education and health experts as to when rapid testing kits will be distributed in schools.

“We always work hand in hand with the education and health experts and we are now discussing when this (rapid testing) will take place. We want to ensure that all the protocols will be in place and once these are done, it will then be clear how rapid testing will work,” Education and Employment Minister Owen Bonnici told The Malta Independent.

Back in October, Health Minister Chris Fearne announced that rapid testing will begin at the Boffa Hospital and that a second rapid testing centre will be located in the north of the island.

He also mentioned that rapid testing kits will be introduced at the airport, schools and primary healthcare centres.

Whilst Bonnici said that discussions are currently taking place, he gave no clear indication when rapid testing will be distributed in schools. When asked how many teachers and students have been tested positive for COVID19, Bonnici refrained from answering and said that such questions should be addressed to Superintendent of Public Health Professor Charmaine Gauci.

“Every Friday, Professor Gauci provides details regarding COVID-19, and I believe that it should be left in her hands to provide this information.” He said that any positive cases amongst staff or students are isolated and that the number of cases is small and that everything is under control.