Germany Eyes Antigen Tests to Keep Seniors Safe From Virus

The Public's Radio reports that Germany is looking to antigen tests, which seek a specific protein of the coronavirus, to protect the senior population during the pandemic. The nation announced recently that it is bulk-buying millions of such tests every month, but some experts warn that the test is less accurate than the standard test and results should be treated with caution. "We can now basically perform rapid tests on visitors to nursing and care homes," said German Chancellor Angela Merkel earlier this week. Nursing communities will receive up to 20 free monthly tests per resident, which can be used to test patients, staff, and visiting family members. "Health insurers will cover the costs for a certain number of visitors each month," Merkel added. "That's huge progress in terms of protection." A Health Ministry spokeswoman said manufacturers have agreed to provide Germany with 9 million antigen tests in November and 11.5 million tests in December. "One big advantage of these tests would be that you, for example, can build up a decentralized testing center," said the University of Geneva's Isabella Eckerle. "So you build up a tent . . . and then people can come. And then after 15 minutes, they will know if they are positive or not."