The Health Information and Quality Authority has said that rapid antigen tests may have a role in limiting transmission of Covid-19 in people with no symptoms, in certain circumstances.
In a review published today, it said that antigen tests should only be used as an additional public health measure, rather than a replacement for known mitigation measures.
The review was conducted at the request of the National Public Health Emergency Team. HIQA said that there is uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of rapid antigen tests for screening of asymptomatic individuals, with the aim of limiting transmission of Covid-19.