PCR testing capacity to intensify from tomorrow

• Monthly quota of PCR tests to be allocated in each district 

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

 Epidemiology Unit’s Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Sudath Samaraweera said the PCR testing capacity in Sri Lanka would be scaled up further and the number of tests performed would be increased from August 1. 

He said 150,000 PCR tests had been performed on 40,000 individuals so far, indicating that one person had been subjected to multiple testings on 
some occasions.   

“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 they earlier 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.   

• PCR tests will be carried out in each district with the coordination of respective Medical Officers of Health