Demand for testing spikes after policy requiring COVID-19 vaccination or negative test: Sask. labs
CBC
Private labs offering COVID-19 tests say they've been busier than usual, since Saskatchewan announced a policy requiring either proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result for a range of activities.
September was the busiest month so far for Quantum Genetix, the Saskatoon-based lab's general manager says.
"For PCR testing, we've seen about a 35 per cent increase and for the rapid antigen testing, it's closer to 300 per cent," said Heather Deobald, with many getting tested for work and travel.
The rapid antigen test is less expensive than the more sensitive PCR test. The province accepts both tests as proof of a negative COVID-19 test result.
The test must be done by a designated lab and the result has to be from within the last 72 hours.
Self-administered take-home tests, such as the ones supplied to Saskatchewan elementary schools, are not considered valid proof.
Under provincial rules in effect since Oct. 1, either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result is required to enter some businesses and venues in Saskatchewan. That requirement applies to a range of services and businesses, including dining indoors at a restaurant, going to a bar or nightclub, or attending event or entertainment venues.
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