Test, test, test. That is the strategy of the government. With the free home testing kits, the testing strategy is getting an additional boost: Corona home tests can be obtained free of charge from pharmacies, including those in Gstaad. Five test kits per person and 30 days are available upon presenting the health insurance card. The federal government covers the entire costs.

For people without symptoms
The home test is helpful for people without symptoms and contact with covid-19 cases, for example, before visiting grandparents or friends. The home tests can help detect asymptomatic patients – positive cases that show no symptoms.

If the self-test result is positive, it must be confirmed immediately by a PCR test in a hospital or a testing facility. This test is also free of charge. People have to stay in isolation until they get the result.

Easy to use
The home test – a nasal swab – is relatively easy to use. The package insert and online videos describe the exact procedure.

However, the home test is not a substitute for the existing hygiene, distance and behavioural rules. The current protection concepts must also remain in place.

Based on AvS/Anita Moser