The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) has issued new guidelines for people visiting nursing homes from today. According to a report by the Breaking News.ie., it says regular visitors should be advised to consider self-testing for Covid-19 twice weekly even when they have no symptoms.
Also occasional visitors should be advised to consider self-testing for Covid-19 before their visit even if they have no symptoms.
The guidelines are in the wake of highly transmitting Omicron variant being prevent in the community.
Meanwhile concerns have raised over the new guidelines pointing out that it lacks clarity. Sage Advocacy, which provides advocacy and support services to older people, vulnerable adults and healthcare patients has said they have received a number of calls related to the guidelines from the families of nursing home residents.
Some nursing homes have informed visitors they will need to self-test for Covid-19 each time they enter a nursing home, Sarah Lennon, executive director of Sage Advocacy said. Also some other homes have completely shut down visitors. These actions are against the right of the residents and families and are against the guidelines of HPSC, Ms Lennon said.
“We want to ensure that the rights of residents will be protected and respected in relation to visiting,” Ms Lennon said.
“It is also important to remember that there will be costs incurred in purchasing antigen tests for self-testing which could be an issue for some visitors, particularly those who have to manage on low incomes and state pensions.” she added.
She urged nursing home facilities to abide by the new rules, adding that the way in which HPSC guidance is being adhered to is currently monitored nationally.