Punjab gets 15 more TruNaat test machines

In order to effectively handle the Covid-19 challenge, Punjab is using innovative methods for early detection and testing. Hence, the state government has procured 15 more TruNaat machines for testing so that patients are detected, tested and isolated early. Now, total 30 machines are functional in government hospitals.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Balbir Singh Singh Sidhu said guidelines had already been issued to all government health facilities in the state for TruNaat testing. Suspected patients among Covid warriors like healthcare workers, doctors, policemen, administrative officials, pregnant women and emergency surgery patients shall be prioritised for this testing.

Amritsar, SAS Nagar and Jalandhar have been allocated two machines each, Ludhiana three while other districts have been given one machine each in government hospitals.

TrueNat
It was developed by Goa-based Molbio Diagnostics.
TrueNat is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based test that, by assaying the genes present in the TB bacteria, can not only detect the presence of the bacteria but can also detect drug resistance with the use of chips.
The DNA of the TB bacteria is extracted from the sputum samples collected from the patient and the test can easily and cost-effectively be done in the primary health care setup.
It was found to be comparable in accuracy to similar tests currently in use and has been recommended as a replacement for sputum microscopy tests.