The Cyprus union Isotita (Equality) representing the rights of public-sector workers has called for the suspension of rapid tests for the coronavirus after media reports showed a swab contained multiple times the permissible trace level of ethylene oxide, a toxic substance.
The Isotita (Equality) union said rapid tests – which under current protocols thousands of Cypriots need to take every 72 hours in for work – should be immediately discontinued until health authorities have investigated the matter and determined any health risks.
Citing the European Chemicals Agency, the union said ethylene oxide – a substance used to coat and sterilise PCR and rapid test nasal swabs – is toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic even when inhaled. To read the full story click the following link: https://cyprus-mail.com/2021/10/26/union-calls-for-suspension-of-rapid-testing-after-toxic-substance-found/
Mouth cancer 20% rise in the last five years. The article do not specify before or after COVID-19.
