Mobile specimen collection stations in Tai Po cease operation
*************************************************************

     The mobile specimen collection stations in Tai Po set up by the Government provided specimen collection services by combined nasal and throat swab and COVID-19 testing services for 736 people on November 15, and their operation ended at 8pm. Together with the distribution and collection services of deep throat saliva specimen bottles provided by mobile van earlier, the mobile specimen collection stations have provided free COVID-19 testing services for a total of more than 12 590 people.  

     As ‪at 10pm on November 15, a total of 7 598 specimens collected under the mobile specimen collection stations arrangement had been tested. If any specimen tested shows a positive COVID-19 result, the specimen will be referred to the Public Health Laboratory Services Branch of the Department of Health (DH) for a confirmatory test. Confirmed cases will be followed up and announced by the Centre for Health Protection of the DH.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

     In view of a number of confirmed COVID-19 cases relating to residents in Tai Po in early November, in order to identify cases in the community as early as possible to help cut the transmission chains, the Government arranged testing agencies to Tai Po to provide free distribution and collection services of deep throat saliva specimen bottles by mobile van from November 8, and provide free specimen collection and testing services through mobile specimen collection stations from November 9, with a view to facilitating and encouraging residents of the district or individuals who perceive themselves as having a higher risk of exposure to undergo free COVID-19 testing.

     A Government spokesman said, "The Government will continue to closely monitor the situation. In the eventuality of a sudden outbreak in certain groups, the Government may arrange for urgent cluster testing in the community testing centres or through mobile facilities for the relevant locations or premises with confirmed cases based on a need and risk assessment in order to identify the infected persons and cut the transmission chains as soon as possible."

     While the mobile specimen collection stations have ceased operation, members of the public can still receive free COVID-19 tests by collecting deep throat saliva specimen collection packs at the 46 general outpatient clinics of the Hospital Authority.

     The spokesman appealed to all members of the public who have doubts about their health condition to undergo testing to protect oneself and others and to fight the virus together.

Ends/Monday, November 16, 2020
Issued at HKT 1:05

NNNN