Rapid COVID-19 antigen tests should be used for frontline workers, politicians and experts argue

Rapid COVID-19 tests should be the next tool used in the fight against coronavirus, according to health experts and politicians — including some within the Coalition's own ranks — who argue the tests could help open borders and protect frontline health workers. Key points: Federal Liberal and Labor MPs are among those calling for rapid COVID-19 tests to be introduced for frontline workers Federal Liberal and Labor MPs are among those calling for rapid COVID-19 tests to be introduced for frontline workers Epidemiologists say there are accurate tests that could help people return to work sooner Epidemiologists say there are accurate tests that could help people return to work sooner Pathologists warn with the highly transmissible Delta variant, tests should be as sensitive and accurate as possible Federal and state governments have come under increased pressure to introduce so-called rapid antigen testing nationally across high-risk settings like aged-care homes, schools, hospital wards, hotel quarantine and airports. Some rapid tests '99 per cent accurate', epidemiologist says The rapid antigen tests are on-the-spot screening tests that detect proteins in the virus and, as the name suggests, deliver results within minutes. Authorities wary positive cases won't come forward The Health Department noted the government was currently trialling the use of the rapid antigen tests in aged-care facilities in New South Wales to identify whether they could be used in outbreaks. Pathologists argue rapid tests aren't as accurate Chair of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia, Lyn Waring, said more evidence was needed before Australia could confidently roll out rapid antigen testing.