Monaco’s doctors, nurses and pharmacists are taking over the responsibility of testing the population for Covid-19 antibodies as the government continues to monitor the virus’ presence in the Principality.
Initiated by the Monaco government, the mass coronavirus screening campaign was launched on 19th May at the Grimaldi Forum and Espace Leo Ferré for Monegasques, residents and employees. At the end of three rounds of targeted testing, around 36,000 people had taken advantage of the free, volunteer-based campaign. The mass testing initiative was stopped on Tuesday 14th July, but it doesn’t spell the end of the programme entirely.
In order to continue monitoring the population for Covid-19, general practitioners, nurses and pharmacists have been asked to carry out the rapid blood tests for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. This new approach took effect on Wednesday 15th July.
According to the government, these medical professionals have received training from the Monaco Red Cross, while positive cases will be followed up by the Health Action Department.
The tests will no longer be free, however they are available for a small fee of €10 plus charges by the nurse or pharmacist, capped at €15, or a doctor’s consultation fee.
 
Photo: ©Direction de la Communication / Michael Alesi