Germany’s President tested positive + end of the free tests: processing different in all federal states
Vienna’s Mayor Michael Ludwig criticized today that he had not yet received any information about the administrative process from the federal government regarding a reduction in free tests. The city has not yet been told how Minister Johannes Rauch envisages the implementation, “i.e. who checks that there are no more than five tests per month and who sanctions it”. The Chamber of Pharmacists advocates a test offer for older people.
Vienna came through the Corona crisis better than other large cities or federal states, Ludwig assured at the sidelines of a press conference. The test system – Vienna relies on “Everything gurgles” – was able to remove very affected people from the chain of infection. It was also possible to quickly diagnose new mutations. In addition, the use of drugs is now possible. However, it is important to quickly determine whether someone is infected with the virus. “All this together makes us sure that our previous test system is a very good one.” Vienna developed the gargle test, which he is proud of. This has now also been used internationally, Ludwig pointed out. The new test specifications are to apply from April. From April, only five PCR examinations and five antigen tests per month will be free for non-symptomatic people.
Meanwhile, the Chamber of Pharmacists urged that free tests continue to be carried out in pharmacies – with reference to the elderly. In the age group most at risk, it is “often not very tech-savvy” people who would be excluded from testing with PCR home gargling tests (for which an internet-enabled cell phone or PC/laptop is required).
Some federal states are planning to switch the test structure to PCR home gargling. Styria is acting in an exemplary manner – when it comes to the relevant Chamber of Pharmacists: The pharmacies there have already agreed with the state government that they will continue to be tested free of charge, the chamber said in a broadcast.