BORACAY – The molecular laboratory of Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) in Kalibo, Aklan temporarily halted its operations due to confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) said for the meantime, specimens collected in the province will be processed by Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) sub-national laboratory in Iloilo City.
Yesterday, a total of 203 swab samples of high-risk contacts of confirmed coronavirus patients were delivered to WVMC for COVID-19 testing.
To date, 19 healthcare workers of DRSTMH were found infected with the viral illness. They were isolated and admitted for close monitoring by health authorities.
Dr. Cornelio Cuachon Jr. of PHO said the Department of Health (DOH) will prioritize the swab specimens of Aklan healthcare workers.
Last week, the DRSTMH molecular laboratory received its license from DOH to conduct COVID-19 testing.
The provincial government decided to postpone the inauguration of the first molecular laboratory inside the Aklan provincial hospital compound following reported cases of local transmission.
The surveillance team will continue to take swab specimens of individuals who have been identified as closed contacts of coronavirus patients. Even those suspect cases will undergo swabbing for coronavirus testing.
Cuachon also appealed to the public to observe minimum health protocols like physical, social distancing, wearing of face masks and face shields, and regular washing of hands.
As of Sept. 14, Aklan has 59 confirmed cases, 22 of which were active and 35recovered. (With a report from Akean Forum/PN)
