HSE to resume testing of close contacts tomorrow

HSE CEO Paul Reid said they are waiting for that EU advice before making decisions on the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, although Germany already today said they will not give it to over-65s. Photo: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

Testing of asymptomatic close contacts will resume tomorrow as the case numbers continue to decline, the head of the HSE said today, although he warned hospitals continue to see people who are more ill than in previous waves.

The AstraZeneca vaccine is expected to be approved tomorrow, and the HSE Chief Clinical Officer said they are waiting for that EU advice before making decisions on use, although Germany already today said they will not give it to over-65s.