Covid-19 tests that can be administered at home and give a result in just 15 minutes are to be given to frontline workers and charities.

The rapid antigen test kits, which were approved by Government, will be donated by CG Insurance.

The company said kits will also be available to CG Group staff, clients, and their families.

The firm has also identified groups of frontline workers and charities that will be given test kits.

Beth Frazier, CG’s chief operating officer for health, said: “Like every Bermudian, we are very concerned with the strain that coronavirus is placing on Bermuda’s healthcare system, particularly at the hospital.

“We brought in these test kits to help people more easily detect the virus, and in turn, avoid the continued spread of Covid-19.”

The company said rapid antigen tests can help identify the presence of the virus in people who show no symptoms but are still infectious to others.

UK government pandemic statistics showed that about one in three people with Covid-19 were asymptomatic but could still infect others.

Ms Frazier said: “The tests can be used as a personal screening tool to inform a person’s everyday decisions such as whether to visit an elderly relative, go to work or school, attend a party or seek medical advice.”

If an individual tests positive, they should get a PCR test to confirm the result, contact their GP for guidance and follow Bermuda Government Covid-19 guidelines.

Test reporting can also provide critically important data for tracing the spread of the virus.

Naz Farrow, CG’s chief executive officer, said: “We all need to step up and play our part in fighting this pandemic.

“This is one more way CG, as a people-first company, is trying to do its part.

‘When used regularly, these test kits can go a long way towards stopping the spread of the virus.

“The test results can help people make responsible decisions not just for their own health but also for the people around them, whether they are in the home, on the job or across the community.”