In its bid to flatten the curve of the Coronavirus pandemic, Ogun State Government revealed, yesterday, that it has purchased a molecular laboratory.
Governor of the state, Dapo Abiodun, disclosed that the laboratory would be unveiled during the next 14 days’ lockdown at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Sagamu as final touches were being put for its installation and eventual operations.
He explained that the laboratory would minimise the test turn-around time, which was between three and five days and fast-track the handling of positive cases.
“A molecular laboratory test is essential in the checks for certain genes, proteins, or other molecules in a sample of tissue, blood, or other body fluid and central in the detection and handling of the Coronavirus.
“It will also reduce the period of apprehension and anxiety for those suspected of infection and their relations”. the governor said.
According to Abiodun, the state would be the first to set up its independent laboratory for diagnosis of the disease besides similar laboratories established by Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Lagos, Osun, Edo and FCT.
GOVERNORS SUPPORT LOCKDOWN EXTENSION, DISCUSS OTHER ISSUES
Meanwhile, the governor announced review of the 14 days lockdown which the state earlier announced on Tuesday.
The state government is reviewing the current window to enable citizens and residents to re-stock food items and conduct essential businesses during the period of the extended lockdown announced by President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday.
