Only 6 Labs For Coronavirus Test Across Nigeria

A total of six laboratories have been accredited for coronavirus test across the country, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has disclosed.

Out of the six labs, two are located in Lagos, while Osun, Edo, Oyo (Ibadan) and Federal Capital Territory, Abuja have one each.

NCDC, however said that it is working to expand the labs to other geopolitical zones, adding that for the meantime, states are mandated to transport the sample from point of collection to the nearest lab.

“Where you will be tested: There are 6 labs currently accredited for #COVID19 testing in Nigeria. This is being expanded NCDC will work with your state to transport the sample from point of collection to the nearest lab Alternative measures will be taken as necessary”.

NCDC said that self-test and usage of rapid diagnostic test kits are prohibited because such rapid test kits can provide false results.

BIGPEN reports that there are fears that the country in the coming days may be overwhelmed with the increasing number of cases of the COVID-19 if the shortage of test kits continues.

However, NCDC’s Head of Prevention Programs and Knowledge Management Department, Chinwe Ochu, had earlier on Monday in a TV programme said: “We are working hard to expand our testing capacity for #COVID19Nigeria.

“Anyone who meets the case definition is a suspect case. Such persons should contact their state or NCDC hotline, sample will be collected from their home while in self isolation”, she said.

The agency is currently building more labs centres for corona virus test in Sokoto, Kano, Maiduguri, Jos, Ebonyi and Rivers state (Port-Harcourt).