PANJIM: The State government will be equipped with two genome sequencing machines for testing of samples of COVID-19 variant and get their results as early as possible.
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said the first genome sequencing machine will be procured with the help of the USAID and Jhpeigo (Johns Hopkins Programme for International Education in Gynaecology and Obstetrics) while the other one will be procured by the Goa government.
The Jhpeigo is non-profit organisation for international health affiliated to The Johns Hopkins University.
“The Goa government is already in process of procuring a genome sequencing machine. USAID and Jhpeigo has already given us assurances in this regard. I have issued directions to GMC Dean to pursue proposal for another machine that we had already submitted to the government for clearance,” tweeted Rane.
According to Rane, the genome sequencing machine will enable the health authorities to test samples in the State and get results at the earliest. The Goa government is working unabated to ensure we get a genome sequencing machine at the earliest.
Currently, samples of COVID-19 patients from Goa are sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune laboratory for genome sequencing. As it was taking time to get the reports, the government last week decided to purchase genome sequencing machine so that the samples are tested and reports are received fast.
The Health Minister said in view of the New Year celebrations, it is very important that the Expert Committee on COVID makes its strong recommendations to the government so that we can act accordingly.
Expressing his concern over the sudden surge in COVID-19 cases in the State, Rane said, “It is a very critical stage as Goa is a small State and a jump of 7.23 per cent in the last three days (112, 170 and 261) is a matter of great concern. Hence it is important that the Expert Committee guides the government. “
