ICMR allows COVID 'sample collection centres' by state govts after okaying antibody tests

In a major step forward in India's Coronavirus (COVID-19) battle, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), on Tuesday, issued a -objection certificate (C) for establishing sample collection sites by state governments. It also issued advice for such sites stating recommended PPE should be used, regular disinfection, biosafety regulations, proper sample transportation. Currently, India's COVID-19 tally stands at 4789 cases, with 124 deaths.

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ICMR allows 'sample collection sites'

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What is a sample collection site?

Several private labs across nation, authorised by ICMR have set up sample collection centres in a particular city to widen span of testing. Incidentally, Delhi has gotten India's first drive-through COVID-19 sample collection facility at West Punjabi Bagh. This collection centre allows residents to drive to centre at an appointed hour, deposit ir sample ( process takes 10-15 mins). Report of test is given to patient via email within 24 to 36 hours of sample collection.

With ICMR shifting its focus on testing, allowing such 'drive-through' collection centres, will greatly accelerate process in identifying cases. Moreover, ICMR has also allowed use of rapid anti-body testing, ordering 10 lakh test kits. South Korea - which was acclaimed for its 'drive-through' rapid testing centres is currently being considered as a model to replicate by several state governments.

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Centre mulls lockdown extension

Earlier in day, sources reported that Centre is mulling to extend nationwide lockdown post-April 14. Centre is reportedly actively considering to extend lockdown as many states have approached Centre requesting same. In a GoM meeting, Centre had devised a post-lockdown strategy - splitting into two parts- one for states which will extend lockdown and or for states which will lift lockdown to ensure transport of essential goods, food supply to people, army intervention and social distancing guidelines. Centre has also designed  'Cluster containment model' for four cities -  Mumbai, Delhi, Bhilwara, and Agra, where a large number of Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases have been reported.

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