COVID-19 sample tests begin in all seven states

Kathmandu / Apr. 01: After all seven States got the PCR machines for the test on Tuesday, they have begun testing COVID-19 samples.

The BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) had however begun the test since Monday. Recently, BPKIHS is testing 12 samples of COVID-19, said Vice-Chancellor Guru Khanal. Preparation is on to test further, he added.

Similarly, Director at Gandaki State Health Secretariat, Binod Bindu Sharma, informed they tested three swabs and two were found negative for COVID-19. Result of one another was awaited.

Preparations are on that State 2 is beginning test at Janakpur, Sudurpaschim State at Dhangadhi, Karnali State at Surkhet and State 5 at Butwal from this evening, according to Pushparaj Khanal from COVID-19 laboratory management committee. All accessories with portal PCR machines had been taken to respective places. The Ministry of Health and Population has already mobilized the necessary human resource for the operation of laboratory.

According to committee’s Khanal although only 12 samples are tested in a day, with the upgradation of the laboratory in all seven States, preparation is on to test as many as 1,000 in a day.