Like many parents, I'm struggling to understand why the Ontario government is so strongly against using rapid testing to prevent the spread of #covid in schools.
THREAD 🧵
THREAD 🧵
Is it because the tests are in low supply or too expensive to purchase?
No. My understanding is the feds are purchasing and distributing the rapid tests to provinces
No. My understanding is the feds are purchasing and distributing the rapid tests to provinces
Is it because we don't have the person-power to package/distribute the kits and interpret/action the results?
No. Even if PHUs are stretched, it seems like there are many eager community volunteers
No. Even if PHUs are stretched, it seems like there are many eager community volunteers
Is it because we have done everything we can to keep schools safe?
No. We have masks, some distancing, some improvements in ventilation but still large class sizes and plenty of covid circulating in the community
(figure via @dgurdasani1)
No. We have masks, some distancing, some improvements in ventilation but still large class sizes and plenty of covid circulating in the community
(figure via @dgurdasani1)
Is it because what we've done in schools has worked to keep out covid and related outbreaks
No. There have already been plenty of cases and outbreaks in school with classes sent home and education disrupted
No. There have already been plenty of cases and outbreaks in school with classes sent home and education disrupted
https://twitter.com/TorontoStar/status/1443330971806351360
Is it because community case counts aren't high enough for the tests to pick up enough cases to make it worthwhile?
Well, if that's the argument then it makes even less sense to support rapid testing of vaccinated adults in workplaces
theglobeandmail.com/canada/article…
Well, if that's the argument then it makes even less sense to support rapid testing of vaccinated adults in workplaces
theglobeandmail.com/canada/article…
Is it because kids and parents already have easy access to PCR testing?
Nope.
Nope.
Is it because of concerns about equity in access?
Well, then implement a screening test strategy in all schools located in covid hotspots
Well, then implement a screening test strategy in all schools located in covid hotspots
Is it because experts disagree on how rapid antigen tests should be used to keep schools safe?
No. The federal testing and screening panel issued recommendations about rapid testing in schools in March 2021 (!)
canada.ca/en/health-cana…
No. The federal testing and screening panel issued recommendations about rapid testing in schools in March 2021 (!)
canada.ca/en/health-cana…
OK, I'm at a loss.
It's time for the province to change its tune on rapid testing in schools. We need all the tools in the toolbox
It's time for the province to change its tune on rapid testing in schools. We need all the tools in the toolbox
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