As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to raise fear, considering the number of confirmed cases and deaths, the medical fraternity is doing everything within their limits to fight it. Apart from quarantine and self-isolation, testing is one essential step that can help identify those infected and further stop the spread. With test-kits still in short supply from other countries, Bangalore-based Bione has launched India’s first Rapid COVID-19 test kit. The best part – they can be used at home.
The only way to fight this pandemic is to control its spread, and testing helps the cause. This easy-to-use kit has been approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) and is priced between 2000 – 3000 INR. To take the test, one has to clean their finger with an alcohol swab and use the lancet provided to finger-prick. The cartridge provided in the kits reads the results from the blood sample within 5-10 minutes.
These testing kits are available on Bione’s website and can be received within 2-3 days of placing the order. Currently equipped to supply 20,000 kits per week, Bione announced that the product has been sourced from its worldwide CE and FDA approved partners.
These testing kits will assure that tests can be done safely and efficiently and also with less exposure to health staff who are already under enormous pressure to help those fighting the disease. Surendra Chikara, the CEO, said, “By bringing down the result time, we are looking to make an impact and help India fight COVID-19. We strongly believe that the government’s support is pivotal in leading a revolution against coronavirus.”
