RATs in demand at supermarkets, pharmacies

Despite the Ministry of Health saying the public would not be able to buy rapid antigen tests until March, chemists and supermarkets have already begun selling the product.

Countdown’s head pharmacist Jeremy Armes said a number of Countdown pharmacies had now begun selling rapid antigen tests (RATs).

‘‘We are already seeing significant demand from customers for these,’’ he said.

RATs have become the primary method of testing for people in phase 3 of the Covid-19 response.

‘‘We’d encourage customers to only buy what they need and to not stockpile these tests.

‘‘We’re working closely with our supply partners to keep stock flowing into our pharmacies and we’re anticipating having more available over the coming days and weeks.’’

People can still go to their local testing centre or GP for a free test if they are symptomatic or a household contact of someone with Covid-19, and from today, the Ministry of Health will be sending free RAT kits to household contacts.

Chemist Warehouse is selling the Government-approved Orient Gene testing kits for $45 for five tests.

Customers can buy up to 50 packs of five, for $2249.50.

‘‘Due to unprecedented demand for rapid tests, we’ve created a brand-new order system to prioritise delivery ahead of the rest of the household and pharmacy goods in your order,’’ the company’s website said.

A number of health and safety stores throughout Auckland had also begun selling them.

From next week shoppers at Foodstuffs supermarkets would be able to buy a five-pack of tests for $32.99, which is $6.60 per test.

On February 24, DirectorGeneral of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield and Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said the Government expected the public will be able to purchase their own antigen tests from March.

A Ministry of Health spokesman said retail sales of rapid antigen tests were authorised on February 24, therefore were able to be sold to the public from last Thursday.

Unichem Petone owner Joseph Tsou told Stuff on Friday there had been no communication from the Government to say chemists should start stocking the tests. His pharmacy had the tests available only for staff, and he was unsure when he might be able to get more in for businesses and the public.