ESTEVAN - The Estevan Public Library is distributing rapid COVID-19 antigen test kits.
They received a shipment of COVID-19 test kits on Dec. 8 and will have them available to the public as long as supplies last.
Branch manager Jason Redshaw said they got a shipment of 108 kits, with five tests in each kit. The new service came available through an agreement between the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the Southeast Regional Library.
"The Southeast Regional Library has partnered with the Saskatchewan Health Authority to provide these tests to as many library branches across the province, and these are for patrons to pick up for home use," Redshaw noted. "This was a new initiative by the province to get these kits out as much as possible."
The kits are limited to one per household, and they will be available at any time throughout the weeks as long as supplies last.
"If you needed a rapid test even if it's Sunday, we are open and you can get it here," Redshaw said. "Those who are interested can come in and ask for a kit."
The antigen tests are to be used in asymptomatic people. They are distributed to allow people to check their situation if they appear to be a close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 and/or to give the public peace of mind in any situation. They don't replace the PCR tests and are not suitable for employers or any other circumstances where official COVID-19 test results are required.
