Only 3 lakh RNA extraction kits left, testing may be affected

RNA extraction kits are required to prepare samples for the RT-PCR test: one kit per test. (Express photo by Prashant Nadkar / Representative image)

While the Center plans to scale the COVID-19 tests to one lakh of samples per day, the sources said there are only about 3 lakh RNA extraction kits left. With more than 38,000 samples analyzed on a daily average, the existing stock is sufficient to last approximately one week.

RNA extraction kits are required to prepare samples for the RT-PCR test: one kit per test.

This occurs at a time when serological tests or rapid antibody tests have been performed. suspended across the country after complaints of different levels of precision.

Meanwhile, 1,490 new cases and 56 deaths were reported Saturday, bringing the total to 24,942 cases (5,209 recovered) and 779 deaths. The ICMR said that a total of 5.79,957 samples have been tested so far.

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“We have around 3 lakh RNA extraction kits, enough for just one week at the current test rate. We are pushing to acquire them quickly and have placed orders with various suppliers. We hope to obtain at least 3 million RNA extraction kits and 1 million viral transport medium kits, and supplies will begin soon. The problem is that the RT-PCR kits cannot be used without the RNA extraction kits, “said one source.

Explained: do quick tests or not

Some states like Madhya Pradesh have already reported declining stocks of RNA extraction kits.

An RNA extraction kit, as the name suggests, extracts the RNA from the virus, the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a single-stranded RNA virus, to run the RT-PCR test, which compares the composition of the RNA to prove the identity of the virus. India also plans to use TB testing machines to increase RT-PCR capacity.

Earlier this month, the Center informed Union states and territories (UT) that it is planning to increase daily testing to 1 lakh by May 31.

However, a shortage of RNA extraction kits could hamper the plan to speed up testing.

The ICMR had recently issued a notice asking states to identify a nodal officer to coordinate with the Resident State Commissioner stationed in Delhi for the acquisition / supply of reagents / primers / probes. “All ICMR-certified laboratories will purchase VTM and RNA extraction kits across the states,” he said.

Also read | 24 hour shifts, TB kits: ICMR math for 1 lakh tests daily

The Group of Ministers (GoM), led by the Minister of Health, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, met on Saturday to review the preparations and deliberate on the way forward. A detailed presentation on the situation of COVID-19 was made throughout the country, along with the response and management.

GoM was informed that more than 1 lakh of PPE and N95 masks are manufactured daily in the country. Currently, there are 104 national EPP manufacturers and three manufacture N95 masks. In addition, domestic manufacturers have also started production of fans, and orders for more than 59,000 units have been placed through nine manufacturers.

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