Covid-19: Deputy Minister of Health says there is currently no backlog of tests

Dr Joe Phaahla, the Deputy Minister of Health, said that there is currently no backlog of tests for coronavirus.

Speaking at a press briefing on 3 April, Phaahla said, “We did have a backlog about a week ago but all the backlogs have been cleared. The backlogs were in private labs as the majority of tests was being done through them but it has been cleared.”

Phaahla said that the test currently being used is called a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test which includes a nose and throat swab which has proven to be very accurate but time-consuming. “This strain of virus was not around four months ago so scientists have worked very hard to get the genetic makeup of the virus. It is a globally accepted test but it can take up to 24 hours to test.”

However, he said that as scientists become more accustomed to the test this time can improve. The government is also working to procure machines which will help reduce the time needed to do the test.

He added that government is working to increase their capacity to do testing, especially as they roll out testing and screening around the country. He added that they are looking at doing tests which involve the testing of antibodies in the blood which is much quicker but not as accurate as the PCR test.

There has also been concern about the number of ventilators available, however, Phaala said that currently there isn’t a problem. He said that officials are working hard to reorganise health facilities so that there are enough resources for those who are seriously ill and require medical attention.

“In the next few weeks, there might be pressure which is why we are reorganising now, all the time we are reassessing and building capacity.”

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