The first locally developed GenAmplify COVID RT-PCR test kits will be used starting Monday. According to its inventor, Dr. Raul Destura, the manufacturing of 8,000 kits per day, and initial 26,000 tests are part of the preparation of the UP-NIH. Their target is to increase the test to 16,000 per day starting May 1. The test kits are full sets containing an instruction kit, viral transport medium, and two swabs. Each test kit is said to test 25,000 individuals.
Several Local Government Units (LGUs) in Metro Manila have bought the test kits. Dr. Destura added that they are prepared to give technical support to every medical facility and laboratory performing the test.
The process and the turnaround period for Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing in the Philippines is expected to hasten due to the GenAmplify COVID RT-PCR test kits. The UP-NIH test kit has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on April 3 after undergoing weeks of field trial. – Report from Mark Fetalco
