Govt. Panel Reviewing Criteria For Virus Testing
A government panel of experts in Japan says it is reviewing the criteria for people to be tested for the coronavirus.
The move comes amid complaints that the current criteria are too stringent.
One of the guidelines set by the health ministry is that people wishing to get tested first contact local health authorities after running a fever of 37.5 degrees Celsius or higher for four straight days.
But experts say such rules make it difficult for people in Japan to undergo PCR tests, despite the country's efforts to expand its testing capabilities.
The deputy head of the panel, Omi Shigeru, told reporters on Monday that the number of tests that can be performed per day is rising, but that it should be increased further.
Omi said people who need to be screened, including those with mild symptoms, should be tested promptly.
