We need to intensify the capacity of (the COVID-19) test using swab (samples) taken from this epicenter. Here in Jakarta, we are in dire need of support to expedite testing so we can detect people exposed (to the coronavirus) as early as possible.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan has sought the central government’s support to increase COVID-19 testing, including both rapid and swab tests, in the capital, one of the epicenters of the current pandemic in Indonesia.

"We need to intensify the capacity of (the COVID-19) test using swab (samples) taken from this epicenter. Here in Jakarta, we are in dire need of support to expedite testing so we can detect people exposed (to the coronavirus) as early as possible," he said in a teleconference with Vice President Ma'ruf Amin, posted on the vice president's official social media account on Thursday.

Many cases of COVID-19 infections in Jakarta have been detected late due to lack of testing, although the COVID-19 response team has distributed rapid test kits in the capital.

"Many of the cases are being detected or handled late, allowing the virus to be transmitted to others," the Governor pointed out.

The rapid test only reflects the immunity of people, he continued. The result of the rapid test only serves as an initial recommendation to determine a group of people without symptoms (OTG), people under surveillance (ODP), and patients under treatment (PDP) for the purpose of quarantine. Meanwhile, a swab test is needed to see whether or not somebody has contracted an infection.

Anticipating a rise in the number of COVID-19 test services through swab tests, the Jakarta government is preparing a bio safety level (BSL) 3 laboratory in Jakarta, the Governor revealed. (INE)


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Translator: Fransiska Ninditya/Suharto
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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