TB diagnostic machines to be used for Covid

Diagnostic machines, which are used for samples of suspected tuberculosis patients, can now be engaged for Covid-19 testing as Indian Council of Medical Research gave its nod in this regard earlier this month.

Diagnostic machines, which are used for samples of suspected tuberculosis patients, can now be engaged for Covid-19 testing as Indian Council of Medical Research gave its nod in this regard earlier this month.

UP has 14 laboratories for coronavirus testing in different cities with a cumulative capacity to examine over 3500 samples every day. (istock image)

This means at least a dozen more centres in Uttar Pradesh can test coronavirus samples apart from the 14 laboratories that are already examining coronavirus samples on other machines (RTPCR),

Uttar Pradesh has 14 laboratories for coronavirus testing in different cities with a cumulative capacity to examine over 3500 samples every day.

ICMR guidelines say, “Specimen collection and transfer of sample for CBNAAT (cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test machines that test TB samples) must be performed using appropriate PPE and following all applicable biosafety requirements. ICMR recommends that any testing is carried under BSL-2 (biosafety level two) conditions and with appropriate biosafety precautions.”

“BSL-2 (biosafety 2) level has to be ensured in the lab where these samples will be tested. Also, required training to staff members,” said Prof Sheetal Verma, senior faculty, microbiology, at King George’s Medical University.

“An evaluation will now be done to see which centre can be added to the list and then training will be arranged for the staff to conduct tests under BSL-2,” said a senior health official. He said biosafety levels of these labs will be increased to BSL-2 before samples are given for testing.