Brac has decided to begin antigen-based Covid-19 rapid testing for suspected patients to provide results in a comparatively shorter time.
The service will be available at 16 testing booths – 15 in Dhaka and one on Chittagong – set up by the organization from Saturday, says a media statement.
Brac is adding the rapid antigen test to its existing facility of collecting samples to coronavirus thorugh RT-PCR test at the booths under the supervision of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
The rapid antigen facility will gradually be expanded to Brac’s 32 testing booths in Dhaka and four testing booths in Chittagong.
The booths are open from 9am to 12pm from Saturday to Thursday. Each of the booths will be able to collect and analyze 150 samples a day.
As part of its effort to support the DGHS, Brac is operating 41 walk-in sample collection booths in different areas of the country.
Morseda Chowdhury, director of Brac Health, Nutrition and Population Program, said: “To tackle the situation [second wave of Covid-19], there is no alternative to maintain health advisories, along with testing suspects and referring them for isolation. I hope taking the rapid antigen test to the doors of the people will play an important role in this regard, as it will help speedy diagnosis and management of the patients.”
Who and how to get the service
Anyone who has been referred by a registered physician, is experiencing Covid-19 symptoms like fever, dry cough, fatigue, sore throat and respiratory difficulties, or has been in contact with a confirmed Covid-19 patient, is eligible to undergo the test through Brac operated booths.
The Brac staff will decide whether a person need an antigen test or RT-PCR test based on symptoms and case history. However, if someone tests negative in antigen test despite having symptoms, their samples will be tested again via RT-PCR test.
People will have to apply online to get the service at the booths set up by Brac.
