Scavengers blamed for scattered antigen test kits in Jaro

Scavengers who rummaged through the disposal containers in one of the branches of Medicus Diagnostic Center in the city caused used antigen test kits to scatter last week.

In its official statement issued on Wednesday, July 14, 2021, Medicus Philippines Inc., which runs diagnostic centers in the city and province of Iloilo, issued a public apology for the scattered antigen test kits found in Jaro, Iloilo City last week.

According to the company, they were alarmed as they found out that scavengers accessed the disposal containers in one of their branches and recklessly discarded its contents.

“We were just as alarmed and saddened when we learned that scavengers accessed the disposal containers in one of our branches and recklessly discarded its contents.  Yet if not for this act of trespass, no used kits would be found anywhere else other than at our proper containment areas.”

Following the incident, the company said they reviewed and vowed to improve their processes to ensure that the highest standards of care, safety, and hygiene will be observed.

“We have always been conscious of our role as a medical facility that cares for the health and safety not only of our partner-employee and patients, but also of our community.  We thus offer our sincerest apology for this incident and give our assurance that we will impose stricter measures to prevent a similar occurrence from happening, as we fervently remain committed to your health.”

Last week, several used antigen test kits were found scattered in the streets of San Vicente, Jaro. (ERS)