08 Feb 2022

The Deputy Controller of the National Pandemic Response Dr Daoni Esorom has advised people against using COVID-test kits that are not approved by the National Control Centre for testing and for self-testing for COVID-19.

Currently, he said there is only one test kit namely Panbio that is approved as a rapid test kit to be used to test for COVID-19.

He said, “Any other test kits that are being used are not approved and anybody selling them must stop selling them and must take them off the shelves. The use of non-approved rapid test kits will mess up the national testing protocols.”

He said the NCC is currently working with the Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL) to validate four other antigen test kits. These will be approved next week when the results become available.

Dr Daoni said the validation has been completed by CPHL and the final report is being worked on.

“When the results are finalised, additional test kits will be approved for use. These test kits will be used in the health facilities and also people will use them to self-test at home.

“It is anticipated that with the availability of more test kits, more testing will be undertaken in the country,” Dr Daoni said.

Approved for release by:

Dr Daoni Esorom

Deputy Controller

PNG COVID-19 National Pandemic Response