12 private labs chains having 15,000 collection centres start testing of coronavirus

Indian Council of Medical Reasearch Director General Dr Balram Bhargav said, instructions have been issued to conduct the test and 12 laboratories chains having 15 thousand collection centres have started testing. He said, two kit manufacturers have been approved so far. 

On the use of drug Hydroxy-chloroquine as prophylaxis for COVID infection, he said, it can be given to asymptomatic health care workers involved in the care of suspected and confirmed cases of COVID-19 and



asymptomatic household contact of laboratory confirmed cases. He refuted the reported shortage of Hydroxy-chloroquine and said there are enough stock in the country.

Joint Secretary in Depatment of Consumer Affairs Vineet Mathur said, there are no shortage of essential items in the country. Additional Secretary in Ministry of External Affairs Dammu Ravi has said that a flight will bring the stranded Indians from Kuala Lampur, Malaysia.