PM: Citizens Should Call Docs, Get PCR Tested if with Suspicious Symptoms

Giorgi Gakharia, Prime Minister of Georgia, instructed the respective institutions to extend the coverage of COVID-19 tests in parallel with the re-opening of the economy and on the background of increased epidemic risks.

With the spread of COVID-19 and with restrictions being lifted in the country, greater importance is acquired by the timely detection and treatment of possible cases. Every citizen should immediately call 112 or a family doctor and get PCR tested for COVID-19 if and when they experience a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or other respiratory symptoms.

The Government of Georgia and healthcare professionals once again urged the population to strictly adhere to the pre-defined measures.

"The gradual lifting of restrictions and resumption of the economy should not serve as a basis of lessening the effort or lead to an illusion that a virus has been defeated," they stated.

Examples of various countries were discussed at a working meeting, which had repeated epidemic outbreaks. The significance of joint efforts and a high degree of responsibility has been underlined in the process of tackling the global pandemic.

The PM and officials of the National Centre for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) discussed the current stance at Fever Centers and inbound calls to 112, along with the resources required for the greater extension of testing practices. It was noted that today 18 labs in Georgia perform the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, and this number will increase to 24 in July.

The average daily number of tests performed in the country is around 1500, which is expected to increase to 4500 in the near future. By autumn, daily indicators of tests will reach 6000-8000. Along with possible cases, tests at present will be performed among a number of groups, which will be defined in the near future under the Government Resolution. In line with the instructions issued by the Head of Government of Georgia, stock of test kits will be periodically increased. The NCDC is also replenishing its material-technical base.