'One test is quite sufficient,' Ont. doctor weighs in on rapid testing for low-risk settings
The Easter long weekend is winding down after many families gathered to celebrate the holiday, with many opting to take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test before mingling.
Dr. Sohail Gandhi said although the tests are not as effective as PCR testing, they are a useful way to gauge if someone is COVID positive.
"There's been a lot of talk about whether one test is sufficient or not. I think for most gatherings, one test is quite sufficient," said Dr. Gandhi.
The Stayner physician said tests could be used in low-risk settings, but it is reasonable to test more than once before entering a high-risk setting, such as long-term care homes.
"You might want to let the rapid antigen have a little more time to work. Wait for 15 minutes and not two minutes as it was initially suggested to see what the result is like," he noted via Skype.
For those who don't have rapid antigen tests, Dr. Gandhi advised staying home when not feeling well to monitor symptoms.
Last week, a COVID-19 testing device that identifies chemical components in breath samples received emergency use permission from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
According to the FDA, the breathalyzer test takes less than three minutes for results and can be administered by a certified, trained operator under the supervision of a health-care physician who is licenced or permitted by state law to prescribe tests.
Dr. Gandhi said the new technology sounded promising, and the data provided appeared to be effective in identifying COVID-19.
However, he said before it arrives in Canada, he would like to see additional domestic testing.
"It really needs to go through a proper vetting process through Health Canada before we can use it in a more widespread manner." Something Dr. Gandhi estimated could take between six to five months.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Deadly six-vehicle crash on Highway 400 sparked by road rage incident
One person was killed in a six-vehicle crash on Highway 400 in Innisfil Friday evening.
'Of course, yes': Poland latest European country with interest in Canadian LNG
The President of Poland says his country would 'of course' be interested in purchasing Canadian liquefied natural gas if it were available, while the Canadian federal government has said it is 'not interested' in subsidizing future projects.
Dozens in Italy give a fascist salute on the anniversary of Mussolini's execution
Dozens of people raised their arms in the fascist salute and shouted a fascist chant during ceremonies Sunday to honor Italian dictator Benito Mussolini on the 79th anniversary of his execution.
Invasive and toxic hammerhead worms make themselves at home in Ontario
Ontario is now home to an invasive and toxic worm species that can grow up to three feet long and can be dangerous to small animals and pets.
Britney Spears settles long-running legal dispute with estranged father, finally bringing ultimate end to conservatorship
Britney Spears has reached a settlement with her estranged father more than two years after the court-ordered termination of a conservatorship that had given him control of her life, their attorneys said.
Here's where Canadians are living abroad: report
A recent report sheds light on Canadians living abroad--estimated at around four million people in 2016—and the public policies that impact them.
What is a 'halal mortgage'? Does it make housing more accessible?
The 2024 federal budget announced on April 16 included plans to introduce “halal mortgages” as a way to increase access to home ownership.
Chants of 'shame on you' greet guests arriving for the annual White House correspondents' dinner
An election-year roast of U.S. President Joe Biden before journalists, celebrities and politicians at the annual White House correspondents' dinner Saturday.
Health minister 'deeply appreciative' of doctors but capital gains changes here to stay
Health Minister Mark Holland says while he is 'deeply appreciative' of the work doctors in Canada do, the federal government has no plans to scrap the proposed capital gains tax changes outlined in the latest budget, despite opposition from the Canadian Medical Association.