Arab News Tokyo

The Niigata Public Health Center started “drive-through” polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests on March 1, in which those suspected of the new coronavirus infection can be tested on the spot without getting out of their car.

Of the 22 people who have been confirmed to be infected with the virus in Niigata Prefecture by March 18, the number of those infected with the virus totalled 21 in the city of Niigata.

The center launched “drive-through” PCR tests over the window of cars starting this month to collect specimens of the membrana mucosa that lies in the back of throats or noses of those suspected of the virus infection that are indispensable for the PCR tests in an attempt to carry out efficient tests to infected suspects.

The health center already conducted the same tests to deal with the new influenza in the city of Niigata.

According to the center, people who have had close contacted with infected persons being examined are required to take an appointment in a private vehicle. Once there, they remain in their car while a health professional conducts a medical interview and then takes specimens from their throat, noses and other areas. Between 20 and 30 samples can be collected a day.