A research team from the Peradeniya University in Kandy has introduced a testing kit as an interim testing method to the Rapid Antigen (RAT) and PCR tests, to detected individuals infected with the coronavirus in Sri Lanka.
The Health Ministry said the new testing kit was introduced to Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella by a group that included Peradeniya University Vice Chancellor Professor M.D. Lamawansa and senior lecturer of the university Ruchika Fernando who had created the testing kit.
Identified as the Reverse Transcription Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (RT LAMP), the testing kit will provide faster results than the RAT or PCR tests and could be conducted at a cost of Rs. 1500.
The Health Ministry further said the National Medicines regulatory Authority (NMRA) has approved the product, while it is set to be registered shortly and it is also set to register the patent both locally and internationally.
Commenting on the product, Health Minister Rambukwella said the Government will provide the necessary support for this innovation.
The Ministry added that he further highlighted the importance of such a product being locally manufactured during the prevalent pandemic. (NewsWire)