As part of sports recommencing, the “guideline is being updated to require antigen testing rather than saliva testing.”
A Government spokesperson said, “The Minister of Youth, Culture and Sport, Dr. Ernest Peets advised sporting bodies that in anticipation of sport recommencing at Stage 3 of the Return to Play Guidelines, the Guideline is being updated to require antigen testing rather than saliva testing.
“Effective yesterday [October 8], Stage 3 is in effect and will require all athletes, officials and participants to do a Covid-19 antigen or lateral flow test, with a negative test result, prior to attending group training.
“Subsequently, unimmunized persons will be required to do antigen testing two times per week to attend group training. Children who complete testing through their schools will have the same tests recognized.
“Immunized persons will need to be SafeKey verified to attend group training, and they will be required to do an antigen test prior to competition.
“Stage 4 of the Return to Play Guidance is also being amended to allow for competition without fans at 4a and with fans at 4b. The country’s coronavirus situation permitting, Bermuda will move to Stage 4a on 23 October.”
Minister Peets said, “I am pleased that as a country we are seeing our coronavirus numbers improving to a point where some activities can resume. Sport is fundamental for health and wellness so it’s a prerogative to find safe ways to maintain sport open and active.
“I believe the incorporation of antigen testing will give this assurance. It’s important that clubs and athletes continue to employ their Covid protocols as we move into competitive training and the return to competition.”
A spokesperson added, “The sporting public is reminded that group sizes are still restricted to 20 unless an exemption is approved. For the full sports guidance visit here.”
“Lastly, each of us has a role to play in stopping the spread of the coronavirus. Please continue to follow the health guidelines – this includes wearing a mask, hand sanitizing and maintaining the appropriate physical distancing; and if you haven’t done so already, speak to your doctor regarding the Covid-19 Vaccine.”
