Four leading private schools in Bahrain are taking part in a government-run Covid-19 rapid test pilot programme.
Teachers and students at the British School of Bahrain (BSB), St Christopher’s School, Nadeem School and Riffa Views International School have been taking part in the trial since Sunday.
Bahrain has officially approved only the real time reverse transcription – polymerase chain reaction (real time RT-PCR) test, which is being conducted on the larger population.
The rapid test or antigen test, now being piloted in these schools, uses a nasal or throat swab to get a fluid sample – with the results released in minutes.
BSB has the largest number of volunteers taking part in the programme with its executive head master John Maguire onboard.
“We are pleased to support the Health Ministry in any projects and programmes that aim to keep the community safe,” Mr Maguire told the GDN.
The 124 volunteers from BSB include 31 teachers and 95 students. “We have been told that the process is pain-free and so far, it has been,” said Mr Maguire.
“It’s reassuring as there is no stress on participants during the long wait for results, which are now produced in 15 minutes.
“The project adds to the protection of our students and we’re glad to be a part of it.”
The school has conducted 190 tests so far.
“Currently we have had no positive cases,” Mr Maguire said.
Students from four to 18 years and teachers of all ages are taking part.
Mr Maguire said the four schools were probably chosen for the project owing to the availability of a large and varied sample.
“This system will help us to continue education smoothly as we move towards normalcy,” he said.
“Moreover, schools have nurses who can be trained as they have a medical background, which may not be the case in other establishments.
“Also, if successful, this test can be used as a preliminary step if a child shows symptoms.”
Mr Maguire hoped the project is rolled out in all schools across the kingdom as it could be reassuring for parents as well.
According to journals, a positive antigen test result is considered accurate, but there is an increased chance of false negative results – which means it is possible to be infected with the virus and yet have a negative result.
The doctor may recommend a PCR test to confirm the result.
St Christopher’s School marketing manager Sam Wilson said 88 students and 33 teachers have volunteered to take part in the project.
She said tests started on October 11 with results available in 15 to 30 minutes.
“Our school nurses have been properly trained to administer the tests, which are being done every other day.
“We are happy to take part in the Covid-19 rapid testing trials. “St Christopher’s School is also proud to support #4Humanity and all efforts taken by Bahrain to battle Covid-19.”
School principal Dr Simon Watson and Nursery teacher Dawn Kennaugh are among those who have volunteered for the phase three clinical trials of a potential Covid-19 vaccine in Bahrain.
The National Taskforce to Combat Coronavirus has been contacted for their remarks on the programme.
raji@gdn.com.bh
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