CT value of current PCR tests (FOI)

Request

Please see document attached with regard to CT values:

WHO Information Notice to IVD Users

A

Please can you supply the CT value is used with the current PCR tests used by Jersey? (we are not referring to the manufacturer guidelines, only the real number of cycles Jersey has set.)

B

And from that information asked above, we would like to know why it has been set at that figure?

C

Can you also confirm the number of gene sequences that are used within Jersey's PCR?

D

We would like information on why has Jersey omitted information such as: These tests are not able to distinguish whether infectious virus is present. - A swab taken at a single point in time does not provide information about the trajectory or subsequent course of illness.

E

We would like information on why 'asymptomatic' cases are included in updates?

The BMJ: Asymptomatic transmission of covid-19

Response

A

Information is publicly available on www.gov.je in response to a previous Freedom of Information request. Article 23 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 has therefore been applied.

Covid-19 PCR testing cycles (FOI) 

B

Information is publicly available on www.gov.je in response to a previous Freedom of Information request. Article 23 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 has therefore been applied.

PCR testing cycles (FOI)

C

Two gene sequences are used - E and N, or E and S.

D

The Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 gives a right to request information that is held in recorded form, unless exempt. This aspect of the request poses a question rather than seeking information held in recorded form. In any event, this information is not held.

Article 3 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 applies.

E

People who test positive with Covid-19 but are asymptomatic are still able to transmit the virus to others, and are considered to be an active case if they fall within designated PCR positivity range (see below):

Currently

• 40 x 2 = negative

• 40 + >35 = negative

• 35 x 2 = repeat

• < 35 x 2 = positive

• < 35 + > 35 = positive but repeat

Articles applied

Article 3 Meaning of “information held by a public authority”

For the purposes of this Law, information is held by a public authority if –

(a) it is held by the authority, otherwise than on behalf of another person; or

(b) it is held by another person on behalf of the authority.

Article 23 - Information accessible to applicant by other means

(1) Information is absolutely exempt information if it is reasonably available to the applicant, otherwise than under this Law, whether or not free of charge.

(2) A scheduled public authority that refuses an application for information on this ground must make reasonable efforts to inform the applicant where the applicant may obtain the information.