Bangladesh government has introduced the antigen-based rapid testing free of cost in 10 districts of the country today.
The 10 districts are Jashore, Brahmanbaria, Gaibandha, Joypurhat, Madaripur, Meherpur, Munshiganj, Panchagarh, Patuakhali and Sylhet.
Health Minister Zahid Maleque virtually inaugurated the program from his Manikganj residence at 10 am on Saturday.
"Tests are very vital for the treatment of Covid-19. And, we have started antigen testing in the districts where PCR testing is not available. Gradually the tests will be started in the other districts where there is no PCR lab facility," said the health minister.
He also emphasized on the importance of wearing masks until a vaccine arrives.
Health Secretary Abdul Mannan and Director General of the health directorate Prof ABM Khurshid Alam also participated in the event from their respective residences.
The testing process on samples from three patients in Jashore district hospitals was shown live at the online event. Two of the tests instantly showed Covid-19 negative result while another was under process.
