The Queensland government appears to be making moves towards using rapid antigen testing, as the state looks to re-open later this month.

It comes after a war of words between the state and federal government on the cost of the PCR testing for travellers wanting to enter Queensland.

It’s understood PCR testing will still be mandatory for incoming travellers and rapid tests used for at-risk locations and those isolating at home.

In a statement to 4BC Drive, Queensland Health confirmed authorities are working towards “securing rapid antigen tests”.

“As per the advice of the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee, and the experience of other jurisdictions that have used them in the past, rapid antigen tests work best when there is a high prevalence of COVID-19 in the community.

“Thanks to Queensland’s strong health response, that is not the case in our state at the moment, and PCR tests are preferable at this point in time due to their higher degree of accuracy.

“However, we know COVID-19 is coming to Queensland. We are putting in place what we need to for when that happens, including arranging to secure rapid antigen tests to support our ongoing response to the pandemic.”

The likely move comes after last week’s huge PCR testing debacle between state & fed govts. Appears probable that PCR testing will still be for incoming travellers & rapid tests used for at-risk locations and people who are already here or isolating at home.

— Luke Cooper (@luke__cooper) December 1, 2021

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