Mobile testing units for COVID-19 from Monday; frontline workers to be screened

The Ministry of Public Health will launch its first mobile testing unit on April 27, which will be at the East La Penitence Health Centre and they will also begin screening frontline workers (health and non-health) in the public/private sector in all ten administrative regions.

During her daily briefing on Friday, Minister Volda Lawrence highlighted a list of measures which will be put in place to strengthen Guyana’s response in fighting the disease.

In its partnership with private health facilities, the Minister also announced that medical supplies will be provided to those institutions for sample collection for inpatients and outpatients who may present with signs or symptoms to their facilities.

Previously, private health facilities have been turning away patients with flu-like symptoms.

Additionally, on the East Bank of Demerara at Herstelling and on the East Coast of Demerara at Paradise, COVID-19 health facilities will begin to provide services to persons along those corridors.

“These operations will take place between the hours from 9 am- 3pm,” the Minister said, adding that notices will be in print and electronic media.

Minister Lawrence said it is imperative to identify and equip standalone facilities that will be specifically outfitted for COVID-19 patients.

She further urged persons who have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for the disease to contact the Ministry.

“My fellow Guyanese, you need to be brave and come forward and let us help you. As these units are put in place, I urge you to make use of this opportunity; utilize our services and help us to flatten the curve and contain this disease. One infection and even one death is one too many,” she noted.

The Minister said seven deaths out of 73 cases represent 9.6% which is still much higher than the death rate of COVID-19 presented by WHO that stands at 2-4%.

She added that there are persons who have tested positive for COVID-19 that need to have other medical procedures such as pregnant mothers who needs to deliver, persons needing emergency surgery, dialysis, Malaria and other conditions that require hospitalization.