A Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machine used to detect coronavirus and other complicated diseases, and eight ventilators are lying packed at Shaheed M Monsur Ali Medical College in Sirajganj though the country’s health sector is struggling to tackle the coronavirus pandemic with its limited resources.   The medical college authorities have sought a new PCR machine from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) even though the previous machine and ventilators bought eight months back remained unpacked, said Project Director of Dr Krishna Kumar Pal.   Last year, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) launched an investigation into the irregularities in purchasing the medical equipment for the medical college spending nearly Tk 250 crore.   Although the ACC is yet to conclude its probe but it has no objection to using the PCR machines and ventilators, Dr Krishna said quoting the investigation officer of the ACC.

Grameenphone (GP) will donate 50,000 units of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and 10,000 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test kits to hospitals designated for coronavirus treatment by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).