Antigen rapid test programme in the Judiciary   |16 September 2021

In an effort to control community transmission and for each individual to know their Covid-19 status, the Ministry of Health has launched a free antigen rapid test exercise to test all employees in all ministries, departments, and agencies.

This exercise took place for the Judiciary yesterday in the Judiciary’s conference room and all staff were encouraged to take the test.

Aside from the Chief Justice’s office, the high-risk departments such as the drivers in the transport section, and court staff and interpreters, were some of the first staff to receive the test.

Judges, magistrates, legal researchers, and most of the administrative departments were also tested.

Results for the antigen tests were made available within 15 minutes of taking the test.

The nurses stationed at the Judiciary indicated that should a staff test positive, they will be instructed to spend 2 weeks in home quarantine as per the current protocol.

The Judiciary of Seychelles is one of the largest institutions in the country with over 100 staff actively on the premises; therefore, the mass testing is a most welcome exercise, which can help prevent transmission in the workplace.

Aside from the testing however, the Judiciary had implemented a strong protocol since March 2020 for anyone who suspects to be ill, and to encourage better hygiene and social distancing while in office. 

Those who did not require to be on the premises to perform their duties were also encouraged to work from home when possible.

The cleaning crew also have more briefings and regular clean up checks throughout the day in areas commonly used by staff and the public to further reduce the risk of transmission.

Press release from the Ministry of Health