West Papua still provides free PCR and antigen swab tests

The West Papua Provincial Government is still providing free polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab tests and antigens for travelers at the West Papua Provincial General Hospital.

The Director of the West Papua Regional Hospital, Doctor Arnoldus Tiniap in Manokwari, Wednesday, said that due to the increase in travel requirements due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in a number of areas, PCR tests were still free of charge at the government-owned health facility.

"People ask if the examination is free, yes, if anyone wants to come, our PCR test is free, especially now that the economy is still recovering," said Tiniap.

In accordance with the Circular Letter (SE) of the COVID-19 Handling Task Force, one of the requirements for domestic travel is to have a booster vaccine and if not, you must attach a negative PCR/antigen result.

Previously, domestic departure requirements were sufficient with proof of a second dose of vaccine, but with this change there has been an increase in the demand for PCR/antigen test services.

"Indeed, examinations had decreased because the requirements were relaxed, now with the third dose rule there is an increase in people coming for checks," he continued.

In every submission for PCR/Antigen examination at the West Papua Regional Hospital, the President Director said that the public is advised to vaccinate.

"If someone wants a vaccine, it's even better because everything is available at the hospital, if the vaccine is complete, of course it will also be easier to travel," said Tiniap.

Data from the West Papua Health Office on vaccination achievements until August 10, 2022, namely at the first dose of 64.57 percent or 514,856 doses, the second dose of 46.84 percent or 373,485 doses, and the third dose (booster) only 14.13 percent or 112,675 doses.

SOURCE: https://papuabarat.antaranews.com/berita/17177/papua-barat-masih-gratiskan-tes-usap-pcr-dan-antigen