ICMR recommends ‘test on-demand’ for Covid-19

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued an advisory on the strategy for Covid-19 testing in which it has recommended “testing on demand”.

According to the advisory, testing on demand should be done for individuals undertaking travel to countries or Indian states mandating a negative Covid-19 test report at the point of entry and those who wish to get themselves tested.

“State governments to decide the simplified modalities,” the advisory stated.

ICMR’S advisory, also recommended by the National Task Force on Covid-19, stated that no emergency procedure, including deliveries, should be delayed for lack of test and allowed for testing on demand.

“Pregnant women should not be referred for a lack of testing facility and all arrangements should be made to collect and transfer their samples to the testing facilities,” it said.

Besides this, the apex research body said that mothers who test positive for Covid-19 should be advised to wear a mask and undertake frequent handwashing while handling their baby for 14 days.

“They should also be advised on breast cleaning before feeding the neonate. These measures are likely to reduce transmission to their babies,” the advisory said.

Read More: https://www.bhaskarlive.in/icmr-recommends-test-on-demand-for-covid-19/