Thread by @SidShirole

An average 5500 #COVID19 Detection tests are conducted in #Pune ( @PMCPune ) every day. It has been over a month since the administration has shared data of bifurcation of these tests into RT-PCR and RAT (Rapid Antigen Test).
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In the past months RAT has taken precedence over the regular RT-PCR test which experts agree is not the correct way forward in controlling the #Coronavirus Pandemic. RAT are easier and results are much faster but the efficacy is way less than that of the RT-PCR test. (2/n)

As per ICMR guidelines, although the positive results of RAT are mostly accurate, the negative results may need to be confirmed with a molecular test or RT-PCR. Rapid Antigen Tests are more likely to miss an active #COVID19 infection (Asymptomatic). (3/n)

With a negative Rapid Antigen Test result we run the risk of giving the patient a false sense of well-being, leading to lapses in adhering to strict quarantine protocol and thus spreading the #COVID19 virus within the community. (4/n)

There have also been numerous cases where asymptomatic – negatively tested (RAT) #COVID19 patients have suddenly developed severe symptoms, leading to critical hospitalization and in some cases death of the patient. (5/n)

I have written to the @PMCPune commissioner Sh. Vikram Kumar ji and requested administration to increase the number of RT-PCR tests conducted daily in the PMC area. And also to share the bifurcation ( split ) data of RT-PCR vs RAT tests with the Citizens of #Pune everyday. (6/7)

#RAT should only be used for testing symptomatic citizens in same locality and not for testing of family members who have had close contact with the primary patient. The Administration should enforce strict RT-PCR testing for close contacts (both asymptomatic & symptomatic) (7/7)