Health Minister Victor Zamora announced that molecular tests —which are more specific and reliable when it comes to detecting
coronavirus (Covid-19) positive cases— will continue to be used for treating patients suspected of having such disease, and that the purchase of 300,000 tests has already been approved.
"We are buying nearly 300,000 molecular tests. However, if the epidemic does not behave as expected, we will consider other mechanisms. We will continue using molecular testing as the first-line method," the minister expressed.
"Rest assured that we will continue to use molecular testing as the first-line method. The others (rapid tests) are part of our arsenal used in an extremely high volatility situation like the one we are experiencing," he stated.
The cabinet member highlighted the work being carried out with a group of experts at the national level, who are exchanging experiences with health professionals from different countries.
"There are few hospitalized and infected patients, and we have continued using powerful tests, which are the molecular ones, and we will continue to use them," he affirmed.
The government official called on the population
to stay at home and wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
"These measures help us stop the transmission of the virus, which is highly contagious, and causes damage that can lead to death in the case of vulnerable people," he emphasized.
(END) LIT/RMB/MVB
Published: 3/25/2020