Red Cross-Kalinga is now open for saliva-based CoViD-19 testing

Tabuk City, Kalinga─Philippine Red Cross Kalinga Red Cross headed by Administrator Raymund Mario Chan has announced the Saliva RT-PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction) specimen collection is now officially open for the yKalingas.

Saliva RT-PCR specimen collection only costs PhP2,000 which is cheaper than the swab test.

In addition, said test is faster and non-invasive process since you may now simply deposit 1.5 ml to 2 ml of saliva through a straw into a container instead of inserting a swab into the nostril and throat to collect samples.

Earlier, PRC-Kalinga Chapter Administrator Raymund Mario Chan said that 3 staffs and 4 volunteers have undergone saliva specimen collection training and Basic Orientation Course.

Moreover, Saliva RT-PCR test is ideal for vacation planning, work, and other travel requiring RT-PCR Test-Gold Standard.

Through the Kalinga Chapter Rcat Facebook page, the office informed that there is no other laboratory that can perform the COVID-19 Saliva RT-PCR test other than the Philippine Red Cross.

No DOH-approved self-administered COVID-19 test kits and all tests should be done in accredited laboratories and by health professionals.

Saliva RT-PCR collection is available every Thursday and you may call 0916-461-4780 for schedule.