Peradeniya Uni researchers come up with indigenous COVID test kit

A group of Peradeniya University researchers have come up with a test kit, named “RT LAMP (Reverse Transcription Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification)” to identify those infected with coronavirus. This is a test that falls between the PCR and rapid antigen tests, the Health Ministry says in a press release.

Recently, Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. M.D. Lamahewa and the inventors of the test kits including senior lecturer Ruchika Fernando met Minister of Health, Keheliya Rambukwella to brief the minister on their invention.

The cost of the test is around Rs. 1,500, the inventors said. Already a technical committee of the National Medicine Regulatory Authority (NMRA) has approved the test kit and the inventors are awaiting the registration of their invention. They have also applied for local and international patents for their product.

During the meeting the Minister said that he was heartened by Sri Lankan innovators coming forth in this time of need and promised the Ministry backing to promote the product.