Abbot Antigen Rapid Tests: Fast and high performance testing now available in Seychelles |13 March 2021
Seychelles is scaling up access to Covid-19 rapid tests with the introduction of the Abbot Antigen Test that delivers accurate results matching that of PCR tests in only 15 minutes, now available through the Victoria Health Clinic (VHC) in Anse Etoile and with selected tourism establishments across Praslin and La Digue.
This rapid, reliable, and highly portable tool for detecting active coronavirus infections at massive scale is a game changer for Seychelles as it gears up for the reopening of the borders.
The Abbot Antigen Covid-19 tests imported from Germany can quickly and affordably determine who is most infectious so they can quarantine and not spread the virus.
The test is also currently being accepted on most airlines as approved Covid certificate, as samples are taken from the nose and mouth; travellers simply have to confirm with the country of destination beforehand. It also has a higher accuracy rate than other antigen tests.
These tests are available on appointment at the Victoria Health Clinic from Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm at R1200 per person, and at designated hotels at R1300.
As Covid-19 vaccines roll out, travel slowly increases, and more schools and businesses begin opening their doors, rapid tests that detect the virus have never been so important.
Why? Because getting enough people vaccinated will take time. Even then, scientists and medical professionals are working to understand the length of vaccine immunity and efficacy of the vaccines against variants of the virus springing up around the world.
To take a pandemic and move it to epidemic status and get it under control, it will take a multi-faceted approach that requires a concerted effort by the public. This includes widespread, regular testing, mask-wearing, social distancing and hand-washing.
“We want to offer this accurate and high quality test not only at our main clinic at Anse Etoile but also on Praslin and La Digue,” VHC director Daniella Payet Alis explains.“As a local Praslinoise, I believe it is vital to extend this service to them. Using my tourism background, I am collaborating with hotels to offer the Antigen test at an affordable price.”
Testing locations:
On Mahé those who need testing can go to the Victoria Health Clinic at Anse Etoile and book an appointment prior on 4241880.
On Praslin, appointments can be made with the liaison officer Lydia Lablache on 2511959.
Founded in 2020, Victoria Health Clinic(VHC) promotes health and holistic well-being by providing accessible, high-quality medical care for people of all ages. The team is comprised of experienced doctors and nurses who strive on efficient and professional care and to exceed patient expectations by providing personalised treatments for each person.
Services include basic health care such as in and out-of-area emergency, inpatient hospital and physician care, and outpatient medical services. We specialise in the fields of Orthopaedics, Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Obstetrics/Gynaecology, Paediatrics and Endocrinology. Part of our wellness offers also include cosmetic treatments, anti-ageing, and aesthetics medicine.
Contributed