BIA Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory Completed 100,000 PCR Tests in Five Months.

January 04, 2021

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The Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory established in view of diagnosing the COVID-19 affected passengers arriving in Sri Lanka at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) completed 10,0000 PCR tests within five months since its inception on 9th July 2020.

The laboratory was established at the airport premises in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to meet the increasing demand for PCR testing facilities. In recognition of the tremendous service and the dedication of the medical practitioners and the laboratory staff at BIA, a felicitation program was organized by the Ministry of Health on 4^th January 2021 at the BIA premises. Welcoming the distinguished guests, Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara, Director Incharge, Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, BIA, appreciated the contribution made by the staff and the collaboration given by the Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited to establish the laboratory facility at a time the country had a dire need of such facilities. Addressing the gathering Mr. Rajiv Sooriyaarachchi, Vice Chairman of AASL stated that as the airport operator,  AASL would provide all the required support to strengthen the facilities of the laboratory. He further appreciated the commitment of the staff of the BIA Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory and admired the critical role of medical practitioners of the Ministry of Health during this challenging period. Hon. State Minister of Primary Health Care, Epidemics and COVID-19 Disease Control Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle admiring the committed staff stated that the laboratory at BIA conducts 1/3 of the present PCR tests being carried out in the country and it is a remarkable contribution given not only for the passengers but also for the community at large. The BIA Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory has done 85,000 PCR tests for the community while more than 20,000 tests have been conducted for the passengers at BIA. In addition, Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle highlighted the importance of appreciating the staff and stated that the Government has confidence in facing the COVID-19 challenge. Fully equipped New state of the art Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, BIA issues a world-recognized PCR certificate, and all passengers arriving at BIA are PCR tested.

Dr. Amal Harsha, Secretary to Hon. State Minister of Primary Health Care, Epidemics and COVID-19 Disease Control, senior medical practitioners of Ministry of Health, Mr. Kithsiri, Chief Medical Laboratory Technologist at Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, BIA, Staff of the laboratory and the senior officers of AASL participated in this special program.