"I personally advocate for this to be done after it is very well documented from a technical point of view. We must assess the individuals undergoing testing, determine the testing conditions, establish written parental consent and define the technical procedure for conducting the test", the Minister of Health said on the 7th of September for Agerpres.

According to him, parents need to be informed through a campaign.

The minister mentioned that there are "preliminary" rapid tests conducted using urine or saliva, as well as confirmatory tests carried out in a laboratory using blood samples.

"It is a sensitive subject, but that does not mean we should not do it. This should be meticulously prepared through a comprehensive campaign aimed at informing parents primarily. Technically, there is the option of utilizing rapid tests, which can be conducted using either urine or saliva. These rapid tests, while providing initial indications of positivity, must be validated through a laboratory test that involves collecting a blood sample from the individual who tested positive. Considering that we are addressing children and adolescents, it is imperative to exercise caution, testing should exclusively occur with parental consent in two scenarios: either upon the explicit request of parents or when school authorities and teaching staff observe certain behaviors that may be attributed to the use of psychoactive substances", Rafila explained.

Simultaneously, the minister holds the view that in the case of a confirmed positive test, the educational institution should implement a set of actions, including psychological counseling, to prevent discrimination or stigmatization.

"Furthermore, following the provision of information and parental consent, the implementation of a rapid test in case of a positive result should encompass a comprehensive set of measures to be undertaken by the educational institution. This includes offering psychological counseling for the child, exercising utmost discretion concerning the identity of the individual with a positive result to prevent discrimination and stigmatization. Additionally, it is essential to engage in discussions regarding therapeutic resources. In cases of acute intoxication with psychoactive substances, there is a 10 to 12-day treatment regimen administered in specialized facilities, typically psychiatric hospitals. Nevertheless, the subsequent phase of recovery and the provision of psychological support to the individual and their family hold paramount importance", stated the minister.

He supported that testing could be one of the measures included in a complete package.

"That's why we need to come up with a set of measures, not just one measure. Everyone talks about testing. Testing can be one of the measures. Furthermore, it's crucial to consider the other aspect, which involves efforts to minimize the likelihood of drugs infiltrating schools. I firmly believe that we all share responsibility in this matter, including both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. As a society, we must collectively denounce this issue that exposes children and adolescents to temptations and contributes to the proliferation of this problem. Such consequences can have enduring effects on the development of the younger generation", emphasized Alexandru Rafila.