Rajasthan to begin trying rapid antigen test for coronavirus cases

Rajasthan government will soon begin rapid antigen tests on a trial basis for screening coronavirus cases in state as per guidelines issued by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), according to an official statement.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday gave this direction to officials during a video conference with medical experts, statement said.

Additional Chief Secretary, Medical and Health, Rohit Kumar Singh said ICMR is sending 200 test kits to Rajasthan for trial.

Gehlot said this will help ramp up coronavirus investigation infrastructure and get quick reports.

In discussions related to COVID-19 with faculty members of medical colleges, doctors and or medical experts, Gehlot said state government's objective is to bring down mortality rate due to disease.

He said medical fraternity has played an important role in controlling spread of coronavirus in state.

“Due to our coordinated efforts, Rajasthan model is discussed all over country. Detailed assessment of deaths of COVID-19 patients is also being conducted and study can be used to prevent coronavirus,” he said.

Health Minister Raghu Sharma said that seasonal diseases were ar challenge state may have to face soon, but added that his department has made all preparations for handling any situation.