Despite the reopening of construction sites, coronavirus numbers continue to drop
Preemptive testing preceding the re-opening of construction sites - out of the 250 appeals, 185 people agreed to be tested - resulted in a relatively low rate of positive cases at just 2,2%. The so-called PCR tests reveal whether or not individuals are carrying the virus. In a second round of testing, only one person proved positive, representing 0,8% of construction workers.
Low rates at hairdressers
On the 11 May, hairdressers, opticians and a number of other businesses in the service and care sector opened their doors. Once again, an appeal for 250 volunteers to undergo testing went out, and around half the desired numbers signed up for it. Once more only one person tested positive (0,8%).
No positive cases from businesses
This week has also seen the re-opening of shops. 121 people were tested - 40% of the 300 asked - and none received a positive diagnosis.
Primary schools reluctant to test
All final year students and professors were free to volunteer for testing, with 3,719 out of 8,573 electing to get tested. 1% of students and 0,6% of teachers returned positive results. 152 tests from other secondary schools found only one case of coronavirus (0,8%).
Since 18 May, a select number of primary school pupils and teachers have been offered testing, although only 15% agreed to do so. Out of 60 tests, once more only one person had the virus.
Government testing strategy
Over the coming weeks, people from different sectors will be called to volunteer for testing. The aim here is to gauge the prevalence of the virus in different spheres of activity.
Luxembourg’s capacity for wide-scale testing will hopefully prevent a sudden increase in new cases by staying on top of how many people are infected at any given time. If this strategy is successful, another complete lockdown should be avoided, says the Luxembourgish research council. However, this will only work if people are willing to undergo testing voluntarily.
