HIQA Recommends Antigen Tests To Uncover New Covid 19 Cases.

Monday, 20 September 2021 10:48

It also recommends no change in the minimum age at which children should wear masks.

HIQA has recommended against the use of antigen testing for finding Covid-19 cases.

In its latest advice to the National Public Health Emergency Team the watchdog says there's uncertainty around the effectiveness of the tests, and their widespread use would cause implications.

HIQA also studied the use of masks in children and decided that the minimum age requirement should stay the same - at 12.

This morning we are also publishing our advice to the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) on the use of rapid antigen testing for screening or surveillance of asymptomatic individuals to limit transmission of SARS-CoV-2. You can read it here: https://t.co/oO1FFvVXN6 pic.twitter.com/F5DwtPODdD
— HIQA (@HIQA) September 20, 2021

More from National News

Illegal Parking In Disabled Spaces: 566 Fines Issued In Kildare-Carlow Garda Division Since January 2024

New figures show that between January 2024 and June 2025, a total of 566 fixed charge notices were issued in the Kildare/Carlow Garda Division for parking in disabled bays without a valid permit.
Only National Road Out Of Dublin "Never Upgraded": TD Presses For N81 Upgrade In Dáil

Raising the issue during a Dáil debate, Wicklow Fine Gael TD Edward Timmins cited multiple studies identifying the N81 as “one of the most dangerous roads in the country.”
Kildare North TD Aidan Farrelly Welcomes Party’s Backing Of Catherine Connolly For Áras Bid

Kildare North Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly has welcomed the move, saying Ms Connolly has been a strong voice for peace, human rights, and progressive causes.
Ex-Principal Of Leinster Senior College Loses Dismissal Case Over Grinds Venture And Shredded Diaries

An internal investigation had been launched after the school learned he was running what it considered a rival grinds business.
Blocked By Red Tape: Senator Says Councils Need Clarity On Accepting Donated Land And Buildings

Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Fiona O Loughlin said red tape is often blocking generous donations that could benefit local communities, especially in areas where facilities for arts, recreation or education are badly needed.
Multiple Arrests Made After Spate Of Violent Incidents In Arklow

A number of premises were searched in the Wexford/Wicklow division this morning in connection with these incidents and a quantity of suspected crack cocaine was seized.
Crash In Dunlavin Leaves Woman Hospitalised With Serious Injuries

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area between 5.30 and 6.30pm to contact Naas Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line.
Migrant Effigies Burned In Tyrone — Just One Of Many Bonfires Planned This Week

Audio

The pyre in Moygashel is one of around 300 to be lit ahead of the loyalist 12th of July celebrations tomorrow.