ANTIGEN tests for SARS-CoV-2 detection will be rolled out to all ports of entry in South Africa with immediate effect.
The purpose of the rollout is to effect the provisions of the level 1 travel regulations, which stipulate that all travellers who arrive at a port of entry without a certified negative SARS-CoV-2 PCR test result (not older than 72 hours) must be tested at the point of entry before entering the country.
Antigen tests (different from antibody tests) are immunoassays that detect the presence of a specific viral antigen, which implies current viral infection.
The advantage of the antigen test is that, unlike the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test, the results are available in 15 minutes.
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In consideration of the logistical complications that a point of entry PCR test poses and the additional mitigation measures in place, Cabinet resolved to implement testing at points of entry using the antigen test.
Government is also aware that some of the neighbouring countries, for example Lesotho, do not have the capacity to conduct PCR testing for all travellers destined for South Africa.
“An additional consideration was the cost effectiveness of the exercise- at a fee of about R150 – R170; antigen tests cost much less than PCR tests. Government wishes to emphasize to all travellers that the cost of the antigen test shall be borne by the traveller and not South Africa or their country of origin,” government said in a statement.
Travelers are implored to ensure that they make the necessary arrangements to be able to effect payment at the point of entry.
Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
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