1st and 2nd confirmatory tests for Covid-19 are free for all citizens: Health Ministry

As novel coronavirus cases crossed the 100 mark in India, the Health Ministry today announced that the first and second confirmatory tests for COVID-19 has been made free for all citizens.

Sanjeeva Kumar, Special Secretary, Ministry of Health, was quoted by ANI, a news wire agency, as saying this.

He also told ANI that "the country has enough capacity as only 10 percent of the capacity has been utilized per day so far".




The Health Ministry has earlier advised that people should not get them tested for Covid-19 if they do not have symptoms (cough, fever or difficulty in breathing).



If you have symptoms or have travelled to countries with coronavirus cases such as Italy and China, you should call to govt helpline number: 011-2397 8046.

"The helpline service will note down your contact details and contact you with the testing protocols of COVID-19. If you qualify as a case for testing as per the protocol, you will be tested at a Government approved lab only," the health ministry advisory adds.