PCR testing capacity to be increased from August 1

While stating that over 40, 000 Individuals have been subjected to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) in the country so far, Chief Epidemiologist of the Epidemiology Unit, Dr. Sudath Samaraweera said the PCR capacity in Sri Lanka would be scaled up further and the number of tests performed would be increased from August 1.

Addressing the media, he said although over 150, 000 PCR tests had been carried out in the country, it did not mean that 150, 000 individuals had been subjected to PCR tests.

“Only some 40, 000 individuals have been subjected to PCR tests in the country so far. Sri Lanka is currently at a juncture where new Covid-19 positive cases are being reported in lesser numbers. However, it is vital to carry out more and more PCR tests in a well planned manner,” Dr. Samaraweera said.

“Therefore, PCR tests will be carried out in each district with the coordination of respective Medical Officers of Health. We have decided to allocate a monthly quota of PCR tests for each district, deliberated according to population ratios,” he added.

Dr. Samaraweera said earlier they mainly carried out PCR tests in high-risk areas. “However, now it is more appropriate to conduct PCR tests to detect any neglected corona virus infected patients in the country,” he said.          
“We will continue to carry out random PCR tests in the country apart from specific PCR testing programmes to make sure Sri Lanka is totally safe from the Covid-19, he added.  (Sheain Fernandopulle)