COVID-19: 15,800 tests for virus performed so far

As many as 15,800 tests for coronavirus infection have been so far performed in the country through both methods of Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT). At a routine press conference of the Health Ministry here today, its spokesperson Dr Bikas Devkota informed that 6,871 tests have been performed through PCR technology and 8,929 tests through RDT technology.

Likewise, total 2,894 tests were carried out in last 24 hours. Among the tests done, only 16 persons had so far tested positive for coronavirus. One of those testing positive got recovered and returned home.

It is shared that from now onward 14 districts are to go through the RDT test. It includes seven districts in state-1, three in state-2, one in Gandaki state, one in state-5 and two districts in Karnali state. According to the ministry, RDTs have already started in all districts of Bagmati and Sudurpaschim states.

Likewise, number of people residing in quarantine facilities has declined with the tests in place, the spokesperson said. Presently, 5,614 people are staying in quarantines. Number of people kept in isolation is 117 including 11 in Kathmandu Valley and 106 outside the Valley.

On the occasion, Director at Epidemiology Disease Control Division Dr Basudev Pandey said tests have been performed on returnees in collaboration with the local levels in Kathmandu Valley.