Asymptomatic family members of patients not being tested in Chennai? – The New Indian Express

Express News Service

CHENNAI: There are complaints coming from residents that primary contacts of patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 are not being tested anymore. The development has raised fears among those living with elderly persons and children. Residents of Anna Nagar, Arumbakkam, Ayanavaram, and Tondiarpet have shared similar incidents — that officials are not testing primary contacts anymore, and have advised people to get tested only if they have any symptoms.

Government’s statistics have shown that almost 8-9 out of 10 patients, who test positive for COVID-19, do not have symptoms. “I tested positive a week ago, but officials did not test my mother, who is in her late fifties,” says an Arumbakkam resident. “I asked why, and they said she can get tested if she develops any symptoms.” The patient thinks it’s impractical to wait till symptoms appear. “I have been put under home quarantine. Now, who will take her to the hospital if and when the symptoms appear? We are simultaneously dealing with stigma in neighbourhood. The Corporation must send people to come home and test,” he says.

Doctor Ramkumar says his uncle staying in Ayanavaram tested positive, but none of his immediate family members were tested. “My maternal grandmother has co-morbid conditions. Still they say they will test only if there are symptoms.” It is, hence, no wonder that testing rate in the State has dipped gradually over the last five days — plunging as low as 8,000 and then climbing back to 12,000 by Sunday, with the return of those stranded in other States and countries.  

Infectious diseases expert Dr Subramanian Swaminathan says though the possibility of transmission is very high for domestic contacts, the cost of testing kits are high and hence, the officials may be prioritising it based on needs. “However, it is important to test all high risk contacts.”

Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr Vijayalakshmi of Kauvery Hospital says testing needs to be higher at this point. “However, there aren’t enough testing kits available.” When asked about this, Corporation Commissioner G Prakash said, “if there are any such specific instances, they would be rectified.”