The Ministry of Public Health says it has tested an Israeli breathalyzer and certified its accuracy is 95% of the PCR reliability tests. The difference in price is around RD$800 for the breathalyzer vs. RD$4,000 for the PCR test. The biggest advantages, nevertheless, are in a shorter time to have results and the ease of the test. The breathalyzer just requires a person to breathe into a tube. The Israeli developers are promoting the test for use in airports around the world.
In the Dominican Republic, the Medina administration has ordered all arrivals come with a PCR test results no older than five days, or take a blood test at the airport. Those that test positive in the blood test are then subjected to a PCR test. As reported, no one is being quarantined unless they show symptoms. The public health authorities then follow up with the person as the results become available.
In a presentation made on 11 August 2020, the Ministry of Public Health explained the advantages of the breathalyzer. The Ministry said they are leaving contracting of the test up to the incoming authorities in the next administration.
The Israeli Defense Ministry’s research and development directorate worked to help develop the testing system. Scientist and developer Daniel Gold has said that the rapid testing method would be a “game-changer” against the pandemic.
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Israel Corona Breathalyzer
Medical Xpress
12 August 2020