New Brunswick will stop handing out COVID-19 rapid tests over the coming weeks.
The Department of Health announced Thursday that it would stop handing out tests “when its current supply is exhausted, likely by the end of next month.”
It comes after the federal government decided in March to stop shipping the tests to provinces.
“At-home rapid tests were a useful tool in the early management of COVID-19,” Dr. Yves Léger, acting chief medical officer of health, said in a news release.
“However, our guidance has changed throughout the pandemic as the virus has evolved.”
Léger said testing will still be recommended for certain groups, but for the general public, the focus is on staying home when you are sick.
Testing has not been recommended for the general public, aside from a few specific groups, since March 2023, according to the province.
Separate testing guidelines remain in place for certain settings, such as special care homes.
Lab-based PCR testing remains available for people with a referral from a physician or nurse practitioner.
Free rapid tests are available at distribution sites around the province while supplies last. People may book a pickup appointment through the online scheduler.
Additional rapid tests will be available for purchase online or at community pharmacies, said the province.
