RS considering mass testing, Federation far from it for now

(Patria) - An additional 150,000 tests for coronavirus detection will arrive in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the next seven days, the University Clinical Center in Sarajevo told BHT1. Although Serbia has announced the introduction of mass testing of the population, this cannot be expected in Bosnia and Herzegovina, at least when it comes to the Federation, because, according to officials, mass testing is not the solution. Republika Srpska is considering introducing this measure in the coming period.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has enough tests. Additional contingents of tests are also expected from the World Health Organization. Modern equipment for coronavirus testing will soon arrive in our country, which would allow for 100 tests to be performed daily.

Mass testing cannot resolve the situation in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, says the Federal Minister of Health. Around 25,000 tests will arrive in Republika Srpska in the coming period, which will pave the way for a clearer epidemiological picture of the situation.

The clinical criterion for potential testing of individuals is acute respiratory lung infection accompanied by a fever above 38 degrees Celsius. Epidemiologists and infectologists state that testing must also be extended to asymptomatic individuals, as a negative epidemiological picture does not necessarily mean they are not infected.

The World Health Organization in BiH stated that every suspicious case must be tested in the fight against coronavirus, and recommended intensive and aggressive testing, following China's example.

Although officials assure us that we have enough tests, it seems that this is not entirely true, at least when it comes to the city of Goražde. Namely, although 4 cases of coronavirus infection have been confirmed in this city, Goražde does not have a single test for coronavirus detection. In addition to tests, masks, disinfectants, and ventilators are also lacking.

How much longer will we beg for help, or perhaps it is time to seriously face the problem before it is too late?