DOH: COVID-19 testing optional for close contacts without symptoms

Filipinos queue for RT-PCR swab tests at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022 as the Philippines records a sharp increase in new COVID-19 cases.

The STAR / Michael Varcas

MANILA, Philippines — Asymptomatic close contacts who are not part of vulnerable groups are no longer required to get tested, the Department of Health said.

Under the updated testing protocol discussed by DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire on Wednesday, health workers, senior citizens, and people with comorbidities should be prioritized for RT-PCR testing.

“Testing shall be recommended and prioritized for instances when results of testing will affect the clinical management,” Vergeire said.

Full Story: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2022/01/13/2153668/doh-covid-19-testing-optional-close-contacts-without-symptoms