ICMR issues advisory to reduce burden on Covid-19 testing labs

In a bid to relieve the burden on testing labs, an ICMR advisory has recommended the removal of RT-PCR test for healthy individuals who plan to take domestic travel. 

The advisory stated that RT-PCR test must not be repeated in any individual who has tested positive once either by RAT or RT-PCR and that testing is not required for Covid-19 recovered individuals at the time of hospital discharge.

The apex health research body also recommended upscaling testing using RATs and stated that RAT may be allowed at all available government and private healthcare facilities.