The COVID-19 three-day testing and screening activity by the Ministry of Public Health, was deemed a success, as feedback indicated that persons were showing concern by coming out to be screened.
The testing site which was located on the Merriman Mall, Bourda, in Georgetown, was said to have been visited by approximately 45 persons. Dr Keon Harmon, attached to the National Health Emergency Operation Centre (NHEOC), said it was a positive feedback as it shows that persons were eager to learn about the amount of exposure they might have had to the virus.
He said screening was conducted on all persons visiting the site, but testing was done on approximately 28 individuals who health officials felt fulfilled the criteria for the procedure.
When asked about the amount of persons who received clearance in relation to the virus, Harmon narrowed the numbers to the teens. He explained, a clearance
certificate is also issued, to allow a person to return to work.
He informed Stabroek News, that it is important that the samples taken are kept cool, and explained that the samples taken on site were placed in a cooler before being transported to the laboratory, which then takes over the samples and the storing of it.
He added that the names of persons tested are placed on the samples, but told the newspaper that there is no need for persons to be concerned about multiple persons knowing their identity, as only specific persons are allowed to handle the samples.
Harmon said that there is no shortage of testing kits.
When asked about where the next such event will be held, he said that the National Health Emergency Operations Centre is responsible for generating that information and he is not sure as to where their next location will be, since that information has not yet been channeled down to him.
Overall, he expressed his satisfaction with the turnout and was heartened to see that more persons are showing concern about the status of their health and that of their family members.
