Northern Cyprus halts free virus tests as demand surges

Health minister says COVID-19 cases on the rise, urges people to stay at home

By Muhammet Ikbal Arslan

LEFKOSA, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (AA) – Owing to high demand, free COVID-19 tests by the government have been halted in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), the Health Ministry announced on Thursday.

A statement said polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests conducted by Health Ministry teams throughout the country will be suspended until further notice due to excessive demand.

Health Minister Ali Pilli said COVID-19 cases are on the rise in the TRNC and urged people to stay at home.

“Please be isolated at home. From now on, it is up to the people to protect themselves. The contagion continues to increase,” he warned.

According to the Health Ministry’s data, the COVID-19 caseload in the TRNC is now over 2,500, including 14 fatalities and more than 1,900 recoveries.

* Writing by Seda Sevencan

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