Lab Techs claim Random PRC testing not streamlined

by Zulfick Farzan 24-06-2020 | 6:45 PM

Colombo (News 1st); Trade Unions attached to the health sector have called on authorities to streamline random PCR testing in Sri Lanka adding PCR testing is done only in selected areas.

Sri Lanka Association of Government Medical Laboratory Technologists (SLAGMLT) President Ravi Kumudesh said if funding is an issue an alternative for PCR testing needs to be explored to test the samples of suspected COVID-19 cases in Sri Lanka.

He said it is of paramount importance to ensure there is no second wave at a time a Parliamentary Election has been called for.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has warned negligence could spread the coronavirus again in Sri Lanka.

"While all countries in the world are suffering from Covid-19 pandemic, our country has achieved a remarkable victory over the attempts of a collective effort", said President Rajapaksa on Facebook adding the Covid-19 virus is yet to be eradicated.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa called upon all Sri Lankans to take further measures on Health and Government directives.

Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said 100,000 PCR tests were carried out in Sri Lanka as of Tuesday, 23rd June.

She made this comment after declaring open a state-of-the-art testing laboratory at Mulleriyawa today.

She noted as patients are separated from society following PCR tests, there is no community transmission in Sri Lanka