Why PCR tests are now becoming scarce

Berlin They saw the problem coming in the Chancellery, but there is no recipe for the impending PCR bottlenecks either. There it is conceded that for the new quarantine rules, due to the PCR bottlenecks, free tests were deliberately allowed after seven days with the unsafe rapid tests – only the staff of clinics and homes can only test themselves free by means of a PCR test. Because it works with particularly vulnerable groups.

Now the laboratories are sounding the alarm and for many citizens the uncertainty about an infection could increase. So far, there is nationwide capacity for 2.4 million PCR tests per week, and in many places, despite the Omicron findings in other countries, it seems that no early precautions have been taken to expand. Instead, rationing is imminent. Because only PCR tests can reliably determine whether an infection with the highly contagious omicron variant is present.