The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has officially launched the COVID-19 Saliva RT-PCR Test with the approval of the Department of Health.
As the name implies, this test only requires saliva to determine if a person is COVID-19 positive or negative, unlike the other tests that require swab samples from the person’s mouth or nose.
This test is also cheaper and faster than the traditional swab test methods. It is priced P2,000 and the turnaround time of results is 8 to 10 hours, depending on the volume of the specimens collected per day.
Below are the PRC testing centers in Metro Manila that are now offering the Saliva RT-PCR Test:
1) PRC Logistics and Multipurpose Center at EDSA corner Apo St, Brgy. Barangka, Mandaluyong City
2) Port Area near Anda Circle and Intramuros, Port Area, Manila City
All Molecular Testing Laboratories of PRC in the country are also expected to roll out the service within the first week of February.
You can now book a Saliva RT-PCR Test through this link: book.redcross1158.com. Below are the steps on how you can book your saliva test. Take note that people are advised not to eat, drink, gargle, or brush their teeth for 30 minutes before taking the test.
For more information, visit the PRC website or follow them on Facebook.
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Homestream image from the Philippine Red Cross website.
