Alberta begins rationing PCR tests as Omicron wave washes over province

Alberta is now limiting PCR testing for COVID-19 to people with risk factors for severe outcomes and those who live or work in high-risk settings.

"With a recent increase in Omicron cases, demand for PCR testing has pushed our testing system beyond its capacity," Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta's chief medical officer of health, told a news conference Monday.

"As many Albertans have found, just getting an appointment for a swab takes several days and the time to get results back is now close to 48 hours after the swab is taken," Hinshaw said.

"While we have used widespread PCR testing to manage COVID-19 in previous waves, this approach is just not possible with the Omicron variant."

Those who can be tested include continuing care residents, health-care workers and staff in acute and continuing care settings, shelters and correctional facilities.

PCR testing is also still available for

The change to PCR testing is not unique to Alberta, Hinshaw said. 

"All other provinces — including, but not limited to Quebec, B.C. and Ontario — are currently limiting their PCR testing programs to specific categories to help manage with the Omicron wave," she said.

Watch | Dr. Hinshaw discusses change to PCR testing:

The change is effective immediately and Hinshaw asked anyone who has a PCR test booked and who is no longer considered eligible to cancel the appointment.

"Please call 811 or go online to cancel your testing appointment," she said. "It's not enough to simply not show up because that slot could be used for a critical high at risk case and only by actively cancelling your appointment."

The number of Albertans in hospital with COVID-19 has reached a level not seen in almost two months.

As of Monday's update there were 635 people being treated in hospital for the illness, 131 more than Friday's update. 

The total number of patients in hospital included 72 patients with COVID in intensive care units, eight more than Friday.