Residents in Vintar, Ilocos Norte who have been exposed to coronavirus disease (Covid-19) patients no longer need to travel far to have their sample specimens tested as the municipal government built its own swabbing booth at the town’s Puericulture Center.

“This is a priority output of the local government to expedite the release of swab test results,” said Mayor Larisa Foronda, citing a team from the municipal engineering and health offices that built the swabbing booth which is now operational.

Funded by the local government unit, swabbing booth not only addresses problem on specimen collection but also issues on storage, documentation, and mobility.

Once a resident is recommended for swab testing, the medical technician interviews and verifies the patient, and records their information.

The health worker will then conduct the actual swabbing at the booth to avoid physical contact while getting the nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs.

The collected samples will be transferred for cold storage while awaiting transport to an accredited Covid-19 testing center.

To date, Vintar town has only one Covid-19 positive, a female customer care representative from Ester village who is asymptomatic and on quarantine.

Last Monday, the municipal hall was disinfected to prevent and contain the spread of Covid-19. (PNA)