Norway contributes to IAEA test-kits against Covid-19

“We know that testing is essential in order to combat Covid-19. I am pleased that IAEA is prioritizing the distribution of test-kits so that they reach the vulnerable countries that need it the most”, says the Norwegian Minister of International Development Dag-Inge Ulstein.

Through IAEA, which is part of the UN Crisis Management Team on Covid-19, laboratories in these countries will receive diagnostic kits and biosafety supplies for the testing.

“This will speed up national testing, which is crucial in containing the outbreak,” the Minister says.

The test-kits use a nuclear-derived technique to detect the coronavirus causing Covid-19. The IAEA has received more than 100 requests from Member States for such test-kits to be used in the efforts to control the pandemic.

The equipment will help countries use the most sensitive technique for detecting viruses currently available. In collaboration with The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the IAEA is providing guidance on coronavirus detection to laboratory professionals throughout the world. The effort is also coordinated with The World health Organisation (WHO).