The rapid tests to detect the novel coronavirus are inefficient. These cannot fully confirm the presence or absence of COVID-19, Minister of Health, Labor and Social Protection Viorica Dumbrăveanu stated in the wake of speculations about such tests, IPN reports.
In a news conference, the minister said that the subject was today again discussed with the National Public Health Agency and with representatives of the World Health Organization. “We, as the central authority, with a laboratory that was accredited by the World Health Organization, are not recommended to do such rapid tests that are now widely advertised and sold,” explained Viorica Dumbrăveanu.
She noted that even if the rapid test shows a negative result, the WHO underlines the necessity of subjecting the persons with symptoms of COVID-19 to lab tests. “The person is anyway not exempted from the lab test. Respectively, we do not recommend these tests and the tests done in private clinics. We will decide what position to adopt in this case,” stated the minister.
Viorica Dumbrăveanu said the WHO confirmed that 1,000 tests will reach Moldova later today. Other things donated by the WHO, such as medical tents and enhanced medical protective equipment for the personnel, will be delivered to the country today or tomorrow.
According to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 118,619 cases of infection with COVID-19 have been recorded worldwide by March 11. The death toll increased to 4,292. Four cases of infection with COVID-19 have been confirmed in Moldova so far.
