Government to pay for Covid tests to contain pandemic
As many people as possible should take Covid test even if they only show light symptoms of an infection, says the Swiss government.
Keystone/Laurent Gillieron
The Swiss government has agreed to foot the bill for medical tests for coronavirus infections to encourage the population to participate in prevention efforts.
Interior Minister Alain Berset said the government would take over the costs for an average of 8,000 tests daily for a total of about CHF290 million ($307 million) this year.
“Cost must not be hurdle for anybody,” he told a news conference on Wednesday.
Berset stressed the importance of testing as part of the policy to respect hygiene rules, including keeping a 1.5-metere distance from other people and tracking of cases of infections.
He added that it is key to seek a test even in cases of light symptoms.
It is currently possible to test about 15,000 people daily or even more, if necessary, both to find out if somebody has the been infected or not, but also for virus anti-bodies, according to Stefan Kuster of the Federal Health Office.
The tests cost CHF169 and CHF113 respectively.
More
More
Swiss health official warns Covid-19 outbreaks inevitable
This content was published on
Switzerland risks new outbreaks of coronavirus cases similar to those in neighboring Germany, a senior health official has warned.
The government decision takes effect on Thursday and is aimed at ending a dispute between the cantonal authorities and the health insurance companies.
SwissCovid app
Berset also announced that a tracing programme will be available to the public across Switzerland as of Thursday.
He called for a widespread use of a smartphone application, known as SwissCovid, to complement the conventional tracking of infections by the cantonal authorities.
“It is key that a maximum of people download the app but its use remains voluntary,” Berset explained.
Parliament earlier this month agreed the legal basis for the use of the app amid concerns about data protection. It follows a technical trial phase of several weeks.
The app uses Bluetooth waves to allow smartphones to communicate with each other anonymously, allowing app stores users to be notified if they came into contact with infected people.
More
More
Coronavirus: the situation in Switzerland
This content was published on
An overview of the latest Covid-related information in the Alpine nation.
Swiss invention: 90-year anniversary of first T-bar ski lift
This content was published on
On Monday it will be 90 years since the world’s first T-bar ski lift went into service in Davos. This Swiss invention was an instant success.
Iran summons Swiss ambassador over US and Italy arrests
This content was published on
Iran has summoned the Swiss ambassador, who represents US interests, to protest against the arrest in the US and Italy of two Iranians.
Swisscom receives greenlight for acquisition of Vodafone Italia
This content was published on
The takeover of Vodafone Italia by Swisscom is nearing completion. All relevant authorities have now approved the €8 billion (CHF7.45 billion) deal.
Novo Nordisk stock market plunge drags down Swiss device maker Ypsomed
This content was published on
The Danish pharmaceutical giant, Novo Nordisk, faced setbacks on Friday that weighed on the share price of Swiss injection device manufacturer Ypsomed.
Swiss press react to EU deal with mix of euphoria and scepticism
This content was published on
Swiss media reaction to the agreement between Switzerland and the EU varies widely. Some are celebrating, while others worry about what is to come.
Swiss Solidarity donations to tackle child abuse top CHF4 million
This content was published on
Swiss Solidarity, the humanitarian arm of the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation (SBC), has raised over CHF4 million ($4.3 million) to tackle child abuse.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Swiss support wanes for masks and Covid tracing app
This content was published on
The Swiss remain sceptical about the use of face masks and a tracing device to contain the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic, a survey has found.
This content was published on
Contact tracing apps are being touted as crucial aids to control the spread of Covid-19. But critics warn of data privacy concerns.
Swiss focus on vaccine and diagnostics in global fight against Covid-19
This content was published on
The government has approved CHF175 million in funds to help secure universal access to diagnostic and therapeutic products and boost humanitarian aid.
What is considered enough when it comes to coronavirus testing?
This content was published on
In this second collection of answers to readers’ questions, we explore who can get tested, and whether an optimal testing rate exists.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.