Bir Hospital has introduced a new test that can detect 10 respiratory viruses at the same time.

Bir Hospital, the country's oldest medical institution, has started conducting simultaneous tests for multiple respiratory viruses through its Medical Genetics Laboratory.

The new facility can test for 10 different viruses that cause respiratory illness, simultaneously, according to Dr Nilam Thakur, Chief, Department of Medical Genetics. This would reduce the cost of testing drastically and lead to early diagnosis, she added.

Dr Thakur further said that the hospital is also equipped to provide treatment for whatever ailments are diagnosed through these tests. Although the laboratory was established in 2073 BS, full operation has not been possible due to a shortage of equipment and skilled manpower.

There are presently only three people to handle the lab. It stands as the first government-run facility in the country to offer genetic health testing services. Besides, Bir Hospital has also introduced simultaneous testing for six viruses related to brain infections, it is said.