Monaco offers free blood tests to check residents’ Covid immunity

The Monegasque authorities are offering free blood tests to determine whether or not people have immunity to Covid to see if they need to receive a booster vaccine dose.

Monegasque citizens and residents can undergo this test, offered by the Centre scientifique de Monaco, to find out their antibody levels and whether they are already protected from Covid.

“I think that Monaco is the only country in the world that is carrying out free blood tests on its entire population,” Françoise Ragazoni, doctor at the Auditorium Rainier-III vaccination centre, told Monaco Matin.

“Some people want their third dose straightaway, especially if they travel a lot. If they are 65 or over and are resident in Monaco, they are automatically entitled to it.

“But other people hesitate. We are doing a lot of consultations and giving advice. When they come to the vaccination centre, I ask them: ‘have you [been tested for] antibodies?’”

The blood tests offered to residents of Monaco determine their rate of antibody protection. If the level sits below 30, the person is no longer immune to Covid and they will automatically be entitled to a third vaccine dose without having to wait for six months after their second.

Blood tests can also be carried out in residents’ homes if needs be. Please note that employees who arrive in Monaco to work each day are not eligible for these free tests.

Over 6,600 blood tests have already been carried out, and those who already have high levels of immunity are being advised to delay their booster dose.

Monaco’s booster campaign began on October 11, with more than 2,200 people having already received their additional vaccine, out of a population of around 38,350 according to Imsee.

In addition to people reflecting low levels of immunity, the booster is being offered to over-65s, healthcare workers and people with health conditions which make them particularly vulnerable to the virus.

Approximately 35% of Monegasque citizens and residents are over 65, meaning that nearly 11,000 members of this age group are eligible for the booster jab.

To find out more about appointments regarding Covid booster doses, visit the Principality of Monaco website.

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