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Technology capable of releasing COVID-19 test results in 45 minutes arriving in Philippines —DOH
The Department of Health (DOH) announced that 3,000 Gene Xpert test kits, which can provide results in as little as 45 minutes, are expected to arrive in the Philippines next week to boost COVID-19 testing capacity.
These Gene Xpert kits are typically used for diagnosing tuberculosis (TB) but can be repurposed for COVID-19 testing.
Health Undersecretary Ma. Rosario Vergeire explained that the kits will undergo validation by the DOH before being distributed to testing laboratories.
Vergeire highlighted that the Gene Xpert technology is automated, allowing for faster processing and a higher volume of specimens processed per day compared to existing RT-PCR machines.
Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles also confirmed the 45-minute turnaround time for results using the Gene Xpert kits.
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