pharmacies overwhelmed by the proliferation of tests

With 250 to 300 tests per day, it’s the rush in a pharmacy in Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône). Staff have been called in to assist following a strong demand for screening. “We are overwhelmed, so to go faster and save as much time as possible, we get together”, explains Stéphanie Barrielle, pharmacy assistant. The tests are linked, one in three people register to do one. The Covid-19 mobilizes most of the employees, especially since it is also necessary to vaccinate. The biggest fear? That staff are also affected by the virus.

In a small pharmacy in Villiers-sur-Marne (Val-de-Marne), the pace is the same. A child had been diagnosed positive at the ventilated center the previous week. All those who have been around him must be tested before Monday, January 10. For several weeks, the Covid-19 has occupied more than half of the daily life of the pharmacy. “We are overwhelmed. Because we also need something to ensure our profession as a pharmacist, in addition to vaccination and tests”, explains Bruno Maleine. His wife comes to lend a hand more and more often. From December 31 to January 6, 9.5 million tests were performed.