India’s first indigenous home-based Rapid Covid 19 self-test kit has been commercially launched by Pune-based MyLab Discovery Solutions Ltd. The Covid 19 testing kit can detect the virus within 15 minutes.
The manufacturer on Thursday announced that the Covid 19 self-test kit will be made available at chemist shops across the country in the next two-three days.
Named as CoviSelf, the kit is estimated to cost about Rs. 250 per unit.
“Thank you all for your patience. We are happy to roll out the first 1 million self-tests today. In the next 2-3 days, it should reach pharmacies near you and you can also buy them on @Flipkart.” MyLab announced on Twitter.
Thank you all for your patience. We are happy to roll out the first 1 million self-tests today. In next 2-3 days, it should reach at pharmacies near you and you can also buy them on @Flipkart. Authorized selling points available at https://t.co/FR8hrEa24I pic.twitter.com/xf2xZmuDWK
— Mylab Discovery Solutions (@MylabSolutions) June 3, 2021
The announcement of the commercial launch of MyLab’s Covid 19 self-test kit was done only after receiving approval from Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR).
On May 19, ICMR allowed the home-based rapid antigen test (RAT) to detect Covid-19 to be sold commercially. It can be administered much like the home-based pregnancy test kits.
It is the first test kit for Covid-19 that can be self-administered by citizens at home, in India.
The company also stated that the indigenous test kit will be distributed through to 95 percent of the PIN codes in the county. It will be available over all the pharmacies and drugstores across India.
Individuals can also order the test kit online through some e-commerce platforms.
Initially, the company will roll out 1 million self-test kits. Based on consumer demand, it will make 7 million units available per week.
According to the company, the product should be available in retail within 2-3 days. The company plans to make the products available on the government e-marketplace (GEM).
Designed as the mid-nasal swab test, it can detect the virus in just 15 minutes. Each unit contains a testing kit, instructions leaflet, and a bag to safely dispose of the used contents after testing. One kit can perform one test.
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