KMU’S testing lab closed due to lack of funds

Khyber: A public health reference laboratory at Khyber Medical University has been forced to shut down due to the unavailability of funds.

The closure of the laboratory has resulted in the termination of 70 employees at Khyber Medical University.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the public health laboratory conducted 1.8 million free tests, including tests for COVID-19, Congo fever, dengue, typhoid, and influenza.

Dr. Yasar Yousafi, Director of the Public Health Reference Laboratory, explained that the funds provided by the government were exhausted on June 28.

The laboratory used to conduct 6,000 tests daily, but with an allocation of 40 million Pakistani rupees from the government, the laboratory can only remain operational for one year.

According to Dr. Riaz, the Health Advisor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the treasury department has been informed about the need for funds to be allocated to the laboratory.