MoPH approves two new Covid-19 tests for private sector

(MENAFN - The Peninsula) The Ministry of Public Health has updated its COVID-19 testing protocol and approved antibody and antigen tests to be performed in the private healthcare sector. MOPH updated COVID-19 testing protocol and approved two new tests for private healthcare sector. Three COVID-1 9 tests are now available at approved private hospitals and clinics: Rapid antigen testing •    Offers a fast and reasonably accurate screening test to detect COVID-19 virus antigens in the individual. •    The test can be used for a range of uses including triaging patients with respiratory symptoms presenting to clinics, and prior to hospital admission for minor procedures. •    Requires a nasal swab to be taken from the individual and the results are usually available within 15 minutes. Antibody testing (Rapid, Anti-N and Anti-S assays) •    Designed to demonstrate immunity against COVID-19 as a result of a previous infection or vaccination. •    These tests can be done in private clinics by nurses, physicians, or other healthcare providers. •    Requires a blood drop to be taken from the individual and the results are usually available within 15 minutes Pol merase chain reaction (PCR) testing •    For screening of asymptomatic people or patients or patients presenting with COVID-19 like symptoms or other respiratory symptoms. •    It can detect COVID-19 virus in the early acute infectious stage of the infection and during the prolonged shedding stage that is often found in recovering patients. •    Currently, PCR tests are required prior to travel, before major hospital procedures and for confirmation of infection following a positive rapid antigen test •    PCR testing is considered the golden standard test in diagnosing acute infection with COVID-19MENAFN29052021000063011010ID1102169839