COVID-19 testing | ICMR issues new guidelines for RT-PCR, RAT

As India battles the surging COVID-19 cases in its deadly second wave, laboratories are finding it challenging to consistently test samples. Against this backdrop, the ICMR has now has issued fresh guidelines for COVID-19 testing regarding RT-PCR and RAT tests.

According to the new guidelines issued, an "RT-PCR test must not be repeated in any individual who has tested positive once either by RAT or RT-PCR". Moreover, recovered individuals who get discharged from hospitals will not require another round of testing, the ICMR said.

Further, the ICMR also seeks to remove mandatory negative RT-PCR test reports for healthy individuals undertaking inter-state domestic travel.

"The need for RT-PCR test in healthy individuals undertaking inter-state domestic travel may be completely removed to reduce the load on laboratories," the guidelines read.

However, it added that non-essential travel or inter-state travel of symptomatic individuals should be avoided. Whereas all asymptomatic individuals undertaking essential travel must follow COVID-19 appropriate behaviour, the guidelines added.