The government announced on Friday that it will stop offering free PCR tests from March in view of the latest Covid situation and the dwindling demand for such tests.

Authorities said in a statement that the cancellation of free PCR tests will coincide with a change in rules for public hospital and care home staff and visitors, who will no longer be required to undergo such swabs from March 1.

Rather, they will only be asked to do a rapid antigen test before entering these venues.

The government said that while some 60 testing centres and stations will cease operation from next month, 21 will remain open for those who wish to take paid tests.

The government also reminded Covid patients who wish to book a place at an isolation centre to do so before February 21, as all isolation facilities will close from March as well.