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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Have yourself tested only in licensed COVID-19 labs, DOH says

Have yourself tested only in licensed COVID-19 labs, DOH says

Published Feb 4, 2021 12:06 pm

The Department of Health (DOH) urged the public to have themselves tested only in COVID-19 laboratories accredited by the agency.

"Following the recent reports on falsified COVID-19 RT-PCR results, the Department of Health reminds and urges everyone to get tested only in licensed COVID-19 testing laboratories," the DOH said in a statement.

(Unsplash / MANILA BULLETIN)

The DOH said that not all laboratories in the country have the capability to conduct testing for COVID-19.

"Keep in mind that not all diagnostic laboratories can provide COVID-19 RT-PCR testing and this kind of testing requires a specific license issued by the DOH," it said.

The public may visit the DOH website for the complete list of licensed laboratories for COVID-19: http://hfsrb.doh.gov.ph/1729-2/.

The public may also consult or seek advice from their respective local health centers or regional epidemiology and surveillance units if they deemed that they need to get tested.

Meanwhile, the DOH said that if the patient is having doubts on the authenticity of the laboratory or the test result, "ask for a copy of their readily available license specific for COVID-19 RT-PCR testing valid until Dec. 31, 2021 only and usually posted in their vicinity."

Self-test kits

The DOH also warned the public against the use of supposed self-administered test kits for COVID-19.

"To date, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines has not approved any self-administered test kits," the DOH said.

"The DOH cautions the public against sellers who claim to sell such products and strongly urges the public the immediate reporting of such to the FDA," it added.

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