More rapid antigen tests are on the way for New Zealand

Speaking to media after a meeting with Cabinet ministers, Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson said the Government had secured 36 million more rapid antigen tests, which will arrive in the next few months. 

This comes at a time when the Government aims to move to its second phase of its Omicron plan, which aims to slow the spread of an Omicron outbreak. 

Associate Health Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall elaborated more on the extra rapid antigen tests. In a statement released on Tuesday, Verrall said the Government had secured the delivery of enough rapid antigen tests to help Aotearoa through a widespread Omicron outbreak in the coming months. 

“Last week and over the weekend the Government has been in contact with a variety of rapid antigen test manufacturers. Those efforts have resulted in securing an additional 36 million tests for delivery over the next two months which corresponds with a predicted rise in Omicron cases,” Verrall said.

“These additional 36 million tests are on top of the 16.9 million orders already confirmed for delivery in February. Along with the 5.1 million tests already in the country, New Zealanders will have access to over 55 million rapid antigen tests in the coming two months.

“A total of 123 million rapid antigen tests have been ordered through to June, which will allow for regular and widespread testing to occur." 

Verrall said the use and supply of these tests would continue to be prioritised to ensure "we are protecting the vulnerable and to enable asymptomatic critical workers to return to work". 

"These additional supplies will go a long way to ensuring those who most need a test can access one."

There are currently 5.1m rapid antigen tests in the country. 

Top Image: A person getting tested for Covid-19 via rapid antigen testing. (File photo) Photo: dragana991/iStock

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