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Israel transfers advanced coronavirus detection device to Gaza hospital

The device, called a PCR machine, was donated by an unidentified international organization with the help of the WHO and is expected to double Gaza’s coronavirus test rate.

Palestinian Energy Company workers wear protective clothing and masks during their work following the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Gaza Strip, April 6, 2020. Photo by Abed Rahim Khatib/Flash90.
Palestinian Energy Company workers wear protective clothing and masks during their work following the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Gaza Strip, April 6, 2020. Photo by Abed Rahim Khatib/Flash90.

Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Palestinian Territories (COGAT) announced on Sunday that it had transferred an advanced medical device used to detect coronavirus to the Gaza Strip.

The device, called a PCR machine, is used for detection of COVID-19, said COGAT on Twitter, adding that it will arrive at Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.

The machine, also called a thermal cycler, was donated by an unspecified international organization with help from the World Health Organization to greatly increase the number of coronavirus tests being carried out in the Gaza Strip.

According to Gaza authorities, there have only been a few confirmed coronavirus cases in the Gaza Strip so far.

In recent weeks, COGAT has also donated medical supplies, food, drugs and antiseptics to the coastal enclave, which is run by the Hamas terror organization.

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