Key focus for rapid tests will be K-12 schools in B.C., top doctor says ahead of students' return

A shipment of rapid tests is expected to arrive on the West Coast late next week, and many of those tests are already earmarked for a specific group.

A shipment of rapid tests is expected to arrive on the West Coast late next week, and many of those tests are already earmarked for a specific group.

Speaking at a news conference Friday, provincial officials said early batches of the much-sought-after tests will be designated for B.C.'s schools.

The COVID-19 tests will be used for symptomatic teachers and staff at K-12 schools, Dr. Bonnie Henry said.

They'll primarily be used to help officials understand where outbreaks and clusters are happening, so health officials can support B.C. schools.

The provincial health officer said protocols are still being developed for self-testing, and that the plan is to expand the testing program into the school communities, for symptomatic children and their family members, eventually.

When parents do use at-home rapid tests on their children, they're asked to contact public health of positive results to help with effective information sharing. They're also asked to contact the child's school.

She did not give a timeframe, saying it was subject to when enough tests are available.