SHILLONG: The state government is all set to start testing of samples for COVID-19 in Tura Civil Hospital within the next two-three days.
Informing this here on Tuesday, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said, “We are transporting the materials and will be able to install the equipment by tomorrow (Wednesday) and can start testing of the samples in the next two to three days.”
When asked about testing facilities at Pasteur Institute here, the chief minister said that the process was under way adding the government is looking to increase the testing capacity.
He also informed that a small quantity of fresh rapid test kits (RTK) has been received while the main stock is awaited.
“It is important for us to follow the direction of the ICMR as certain tests if not done properly could give results which are more confusing”, Sangma said.
He also informed that the state government will be using the RTKs as per the directions of the ICMR.
It may be mentioned that till April 28, the number of samples tested in the state is 1384 out of which results of 1202 were negative. There are 12 positive cases (11 active after one death) and the results of 66 samples are still awaited.
Talking about the review meeting, he said that the state government reviewed the functioning of Food and Civil Supplies and the Health departments and overall administration in all the districts.
“The review was just to look into any of the specific issues that the departments are facing,” he said.