CDO starts targeted COVID-19 testing May 20

Cagayan de Oro City will begin targeted COVID-19 testing starting May 20 at the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) after receiving 1,140 test cartridges.

Priority will be given to suspected and probable cases, medical front-liners, and health personnel.

The city aims for 400 to 500 tests daily but acknowledges this may not be feasible until RT-PCR machines are fully operationalized.

Mayor Oscar Moreno stated that mass testing is unlikely in the next few months; instead, targeted testing will focus on specific communities and barangays.

Dr. Joselito Retuya of the City Health Office emphasized prioritizing patients with acute respiratory illness (ARI) and influenza-like illness (ILI), as well as those with comorbidities and pregnant women.