Rapid antigen tests could unlock Canary Islands this winter
James ChappleThe government of the Canary Islands is reportedly preparing to pass new rules that would see cheaper and quicker antigen tests accepted as proof of travellers’ negative Covid status.
The move would make it easier for tourists from countries with higher rates of Covid infection, such as the UK, to travel to the islands this winter.
Arrivals into both the Canary Islands and mainland Spain are currently required to provide proof of a negative PCR test for coronavirus taken up to 72 hours prior to departure.
Most destinations requiring pre-travel proof of a negative test for coronavirus have so far insisted on PCR tests, which cost more and take longer to process, but are thought to be more accurate.
However, Canaries president Angel Victor Torres last week signalled that Spain, as a whole, was exploring a harmonised testing standard for entry, which would include both PCR and antigen tests for Covid.
Canarian Weekly reports that at a press conference on Friday (27 November), Torres said analysis by Tenerife’s Hospital de la Candelaria had established antigen tests would offer sufficient health security.
Officials hope to have the new testing standard signed off ready for the start of December, with England’s national lockdown due to be lifted at midnight on Tuesday (2 December).
The Canary Islands were added to UK government’s quarantine-free travel corridor list last month.
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