We have not secured a coronavirus tester yet – Autonomous Administration

Qamishli – North-Press Agency
Zana al-Ali

The co-chair of the Health Board of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, Dr. Jiwan Mustafa, told North-Press on Wednesday that despite the efforts they had undertaken, they have still not been able to secure a PCR device to examine suspected cases of coronavirus.

A PCR test, also known as a polymerase chain reaction test, is one of the most advanced tests conducted by hospitals to determine the strain of a virus in the human body; it can also determine the extent of its spread and track the patient's recovery.

Dr. Mustafa explained that they could not obtain the PCR device for virus testing until the moment, "because it was only given to those who possess international legitimacy," he said.

This test is used to detect several viruses, from influenza to HIV, as well as intestinal viruses and respiratory-related viruses, including COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, according to the World Health Organization.

Dr. Mustafa added: "We tried to open a center in this regard, but securing the device was an obstacle," indicating that their attempts are ongoing.

He said that there is only one center in Syria, in Damascus, pointing out that they are in northeastern Syria, "It’s hard for us to send samples to Syrian government areas," he said.