Phasing out of serial testing important moment for nursing homes

The HSE will remove the widespread testing in care homes as latest data shows a positivity rate of just 0.1 percent following vaccination

A group that speaks for nursing home residents says the phasing out of serial testing over the coming weeks is an important moment.

The testing will only stop at facilities that meet very strict criteria including a high level of vaccination among residents and staff.

Sage Advocacy says it's very important that infection prevention and control measures remain in place.

However Executive Director Sarah Lennon the families of those in nursing homes will be pleased with the move...

"But a lot of residents and relatives have told us that there's a disconnect between them and their families. There may even be family members who've been born during the pandemic that a lot of these residents have never met. So, you know, the fact that we're easing restrictions, and with the fact that we're easing the past thing is a really important moment for nursing home residents."