COVID-19 rapid test kits from US still being evaluated, says MoH

KUALA LUMPUR (April 12): The Ministry of Health (MoH) said the rapid test kits from the US are currently being evaluated but noted that there are some issues in terms of production, as it requires materials from Taiwan.

Director-General of Health Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah (pictured) said the test kits can be manufactured locally, but the reagent required has to be imported from Taiwan.

“We will need to get in touch with Taiwan to obtain the reagent as well as the US’ approval,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said Malaysia has yet to find a reliable test kit, adding that several test kits from South Korea are still being evaluated.

He said the kits are being evaluated based on the accuracy of the results, the turnaround time of the tests, and the mobility of the test kits — allowing for use at clinics and points of care.

On sanitising tunnels which have been developed by several parties, Noor Hisham said there has yet to be solid evidence that these devices are actually effective.

“There has been no scientific or clinical evidence to support claims that these sanitising tunnels are effective. However, the ministry, through CRC (Clinical Research Centre) and CRM (Clinical Research Malaysia), is currently evaluating the effectiveness of these sanitising tunnels,” he said.

On the usage of the blood plasma of cured individuals for the treatment of other patients, Noor Hisham said there have been 12 individuals that have come forward as donors.

He said these individuals will be given counselling before their blood is taken, which will subsequently be tested to ensure the absence of COVID-19 or other infections.

“The studies being done now are still in their early stages. It might take some time before we can find evidence to support this method of treatment,” he said.

He reiterated that it may take about a year before a vaccine can be developed, noting that international bodies are working hard for a cure.

Stay calm. Stay at home. Keep updated on the latest news at www.EdgeProp.my #stayathome #flattenthecurve