AQW 26834/17-22

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 03/12/2021
Answered On Date: 08/12/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health why the published COVID-19 advice to the public, as of 2 December 2021, does not include clear encouragement for people to engage in regular testing.

Answer:

We have always been clear in all communications that people should follow the public health guidance in relation to making safer choices and testing if they develop any symptoms of the virus.

In keeping all measures and messaging under review and in light of Omicron, we issued a statement on 9 December asking everyone to take regular COVID-19 lateral flow tests, particularly if you are planning to mix with other people.

The statement also urged that under the latest guidance, anyone who is meeting friends or family, or attending an event or social gathering should take a test before they go.

It also reinforced the importance of testing before visiting someone who is older or more vulnerable. Regular twice weekly testing is also encouraged.