Self-test tests available in pharmacies

These days, the last preparations for the new school year are underway.

Seventh, eighth and ninth grade students as well as high school students will once again have the opportunity to self-test for the new coronavirus.

They will be able to get the free tests in pharmacies, with their compulsory health insurance card and, exceptionally, with a certificate of enrolment in school. They are expected to be available from today, announced State Secretary at the Ministry of Health Robert Cugelj.

They will also receive instructions for the use of the tests.

They will self-test once a week, either at home or in the dorm. Each will be eligible for five tests per month.

What happens if the test is positive?

They should immediately inform their personal physician, who will direct them for further confirmation by PCR test. Until the results are known, they should stay home in self-isolation. If they are also positive on the PCR test, they must report this to their school principal.

If the PCR test is negative, they can go to school and other activities.

Special attention should be paid to the management of waste generated during self-testing, Cugelj emphasized. They must be placed in a bag, tied, labelled as self-testing waste, kept separate from other waste for at least 72 hours and then placed in a waste container.

The National Institute of Public Health will prepare a survey for students asking how effective this measure is.

Points to Consider

1. Do you already have all the necessities for school?
2. Why should those we hang out with be informed about a positive PCR test?
3. What can happen if the number of infections in the country continues to rise?

***

The original version of this article was published on August 30th.

English translation courtesy of JL Flanner, Total Slovenia News, an English language website with news from and about Slovenia.