By Staff Reporters

A medical worker takes a swab sample from a resident for nucleic acid test. (PHOTO: XINHUA)

In order to contain the spread of the pandemic, China has conducted extensive nucleic acid tests in numerous locations. Nonetheless, some people are concerned that the sampling procedure may contribute to the spread of COVID-19 among crowds. Guo Yanhong, a National Health Commission (NHC) official, stated during a news conference recentl held in Beijing, that large-scale nucleic acid test must be well-organized and managed.

"Nucleic acid testing is an important means for people to detect infection at an early stage. At the same time, the infected people can be diagnosed and treated in a prompt way through the tests," said Guo, adding that when the possibility of social transmission emerged, a targeted nucleic acid test in a specific region could promptly identify the infected, determine the scope of the infection, and pinpoint the spot of infection with more precision.

According to Guo, residents in metropolises around China can find a sampling site within a 15-minute walk. This move will make it easier for the public to undertake the nucleic acid test and increase the efficiency of monitoring.

Guo noted that relevant parties are taking measures to expand the team of nucleic acid sampling personnel and encourage people with professional backgrounds to take part in nucleic acid sampling work after receiving training. Also, technical support is strengthened to enhance the overall efficiency of information sharing. At present, the test time has been drastically decreased, and its effectiveness has also been enhanced.

As for the quality control of nucleic acid testing, in addition to carrying out regular quality assessments, NHC also organizes national and provincial inspections to undertake quality assessments for testing institutions. The qualified rate has now reached 99.7 percent.

Currently, China has developed a capacity to collect and test nearly 57 million tubes of nucleic acid samples daily. There are 153,000 technicians in 13,000 medical institutions across the country carrying out these tests for the COVID-19.