The Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) set up at Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) in Hubballi has been upgraded to conduct more tests with the addition of a second unit and on Wednesday Minister for Large and Medium Industries and district-in-charge for Dharwad Jagadish Shettar inaugurated it formally.
Speaking to presspersons after the inauguration and inspection of the facilities, Mr. Shettar said that with the commissioning of the second unit of the VRDL at KIMS, Dharwad district could now conduct more tests. “In addition to the second unit, we have another laboratory at Dharwad Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (DIMHANS) and there is a private laboratory, NMR Scan Centre, permitted to conduct tests. Together the district can now conduct over 1,000 tests daily.”
At the second unit an average of 250 tests could be conducted and results could be given within 24 hours, thus enabling quick diagnosis and further treatment.
The Minister said that all the laboratories had been set up as per ICMR guidelines and accordingly tests were being conducted. “With Hubballi being an important medical centre for North Karnataka, there was need for conducting more tests considering the inflow of patients from various districts. The issue was taken up with the Health Minister and Medical Education Minister and subsequently raised during the Cabinet meeting. Consequently the laboratory has been upgraded now with the addition of second unit.”
The Minister said that the upgradation had been taken up with funds from the Department of Medical Education and assistance under NDRF. As per the guidelines issued by the State and Central governments the tests would be conducted.
He clarified that there was no community spread in the district and compared to other districts the situation in Dharwad was not abnormal. “The district administration is taking all necessary steps and I am reviewing the situation on a regular basis. There is lot of awareness now at the village level also, which is a good sign”, he added.
Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad Deepa M., Director of KIMS Ramalingappa Antaratani, Medical Superintendent Arunkumar Chavan and others were present.
