Covid-19: "We undergo periodic self-tests to prevent internal infections" – KCCR

 
Scientists at the Kumasi Center for Collaborative Research (KCCR) undergo periodic tests for the novel coronavirus pandemic to prevent internal infections, Dr. Michael Owusu Addo, a Senior Research Fellow at the institute has said.
He noted that scientists at the laboratory have direct contacts with the samples from suspected coronavirus patients and there is a possibility of one being infected while handling the sample hence the need for intermittent tests.
Dr. Michael Owusu Addo, who made this known in an interview with host of Atinka FM’s AM Drive, Kaakyire Ofori Ayim said no scientist has tested positive for the coronavirus pandemic at the center.
He added the center receives over 2000 samples test for covid-19 pandemic but is able to work on over 2500 since there are always backlogs from  previous days.
Speaking on the newly developed Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDT) by KNUST and Incas Diagnostics, Dr. Michael Owusu Addo said the innovation has come at the time and that after it is  vetted and tested by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), it will go a long way to augment tests being conducted.
The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and Incas Diagnostics, a diagnostic company in Kumasi have developed and are optimising Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDT) for COVID-19 testing.
This significant contribution towards the fight against COVID-19 will supplement the current COVID-19 testing regime in the country.
The development of the RDT is in line with two (2) of Ghana’s objectives in the fight against COVID-19; contain the spread of the virus, inspire the expansion of domestic capability and deepen self-reliance.
Dr. Michael Owusu Addo also called on institutions and benevolent individuals to support them with PPE’s to aid their work.
 
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com | Vivian Adu Boatemaa