Kathmandu, November 13
Bir Hospital, the country’s oldest medical institution, has begun conducting simultaneous tests for multiple respiratory viruses through its Medical Genetics Laboratory.
According to Dr Nilam Thakur, Chief of the Department of Medical Genetics, the new facility allows for testing of 10 different respiratory-related viruses at once. This advancement is expected to significantly reduce testing costs and enable early diagnosis.
Dr Thakur added that the hospital is also equipped to provide treatment for any conditions identified through these tests. Although the laboratory was established in 2073 BS, its full operation has been hampered due to a shortage of equipment and skilled manpower.
There are presently only three people to handle the lab. It stands as the first government-run facility in the country to offer genetic health testing services. In addition, Bir Hospital has also introduced simultaneous testing for six viruses related to brain infections, it is said.
