Health

Covid-19: Straw poll shows support, suspicion over Hong Kong’s voluntary universal testing scheme


A voluntary universal Covid-19 testing scheme which could involve millions of people is set to begin next Tuesday in Hong Kong, partly conducted by personnel from mainland China. Pro-democracy activists and lawmakers have raised privacy concerns, flagging worries that the scheme could collect and funnel citizen’s DNA and personal data to mainland authorities. Some experts, meanwhile, say a universal scheme is a waste of time and testing should targeted. Chief Executive Carrie Lam has dismissed the concerns as smears and “conspiracy theories” and said the free mass testing is essential to restarting the economy.

Government personnel collect sample for coronavirus testing. Photo: GovHK.

On Tuesday, HKFP went to Mong Kok and Prince Edward districts to ask a random selection of people whether they would sign up online for the voluntary testing. The response was mixed, with several saying they would do so for the safety of loved ones while others were sceptical about the effectiveness of mass testing. Some were indifferent to the scheme. Several people approached by HKFP said they would not sign up but refused to reveal their reasons.


“I am still waiting for further details to be released but I would do it because the virus situation is so serious now, and it will put my family members at ease,” said Ms Cheung, a jewellery store assistant in her 20s. Meanwhile, Mr Chan, a 50-year-old, also said he would join the testing scheme to protect his family. 



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