By OKECHUKWU KESHI UKEGBU

The Abia State Government has received from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Polymerise Chain Reaction (PCR) machine and other equipment to boost the state government’s fight against Coronavirus pandemic.

At present, Polymerise Chain Reaction (PCR) and antibody testing are the dominant ways that global healthcare systems are testing citizens for COVID-19.

Polymerise chain reaction amplifies a segment of DNA using PCR machine. The sample is first heated so the DNA denatures, or separates into two pieces of single-stranded DNA.

According to SPDC, the state has recorded laudable efforts since the inception of the pandemic by enlightening its citizens on the precautionary measures stipulated by the National Centre for Diseases Control (NCDC).

The Acting Governor of the state, Rt. Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu, on behalf of the governor said that the state has done its best, despite recording high cases, by procuring the necessary equipment such as the three molecular testing laboratories, which when installed would trigger massive testing of Abians at state and local levels.

While describing the relationship between the state and SPDC as cordial, the acting governor noted that the gesture from SPDC would further boost the state’s fight against the pandemic.

Earlier, the Managing Director of SPDC, Dr. Osagie Okunbor, who represented by the external relations manager, Dr. Anyim Chibuzor, said that the donations were informed by the company’s desire for the state to fight the pandemic effectively.

Other items received include test kits, surgical face mask, single use aprons, disposable hi-tech overall, and swap kits among others.

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