Only Covid-19 saliva tests allowed at schools, says education ministry

The education ministry today said that Covid-19 screenings at schools within its purview must be conducted through the use of saliva test kits only.

In a statement, it said the use of nasal swab tests is not allowed and not in accordance with the ministry’s instructions in a letter dated Nov 28.

Referring to a photo titled “Teachers conduct practical training by swabbing students in a school” that went viral on social media, the ministry said investigations found that it involved a Covid-19 screening at a school in Pahang.

A total of 16 students at the school were selected at random to undergo the Covid-19 screening test using saliva test kits, it said.

“However, a nasal swab demonstration was also conducted and involved four students and four teachers who were assisted by two community nurses,” the statement added.