Georgia received additional 40 000 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests from China. Special flight from Beijing landed in Tbilisi airport. The Minister of Health met the arrival of 52 tons of cargo at the airport. PCR tests were purchased by the state, but in addition, 20 000 antibody tests are a gift from the Chinese government.

“The most important part of this cargo is the 40 000 PCR tests we have been waiting for. We also received personal protective equipment, which will ensure safe working environment for our health workers. We are expanding the testing for vulnerable groups, with a very high risk, this week, we are also working on who will be the next priority”, - said Ekaterine Tikaradze.

By the end of the next week, some more 20 000 PCR tests will arrive from Germany as well. Later in May, 50,000 PCR tests will also be delivered from South Korea to fill up the stock.

PCR testing is one of the dominant ways that global healthcare systems use to diagnose COVID-19, including in Georgia. It is a gold-standard in epidemiology for detecting viral matter in blood samples.