Dr. Colm Henry:

In broad terms there are three modes of testing, all of which are determined by the expert advisory group, and HIQA has input through its own assessments.

The PCR test is determined to be the most sensitive and real time of the three broad categories. Antigen testing does not hold as much promise at present. As more evidence emerges, we know that antibody testing is more useful in determining population exposure or the exposure of particular risk groups but not the current level of infection. The mode of the PCR test is a nasopharyngeal swab which, of the different types of swabbing available, presents the most sensitive measure.

As was alluded to earlier by one of the Deputy's colleagues, we are looking at the version of this that would be easier for children, which is salivary retesting. That has to be determined by the expert advisory group.

On NPHET, the expert advisory group is always considering new and emerging evidence from other healthcare systems on modes of testing in the three broad categories mentioned and the mode of carrying out tests. At this point in time, August 2020, PCR by nasopharyngeal swabbing is our preferred mode of testing as is the case throughout most healthcare systems in the West. We are constantly monitoring new evidence and proposals that are coming to us from other healthcare systems.