Mysuru: A Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) has been added to K.R. Hospital in city.

The lab will help in the diagnosis of common viral infections like Chikungunya, Dengue, Hepatitis, Japanese Encephalitis, Measles, Zika, Rubella and similar viral infections. The lab is also equipped to carry out serological and molecular diagnosis by ELISA method. Earlier, for infections other than Dengue and Chikungunya, the blood samples were being sent to Manipal or Pune and now every test can be done under one roof here.

The new lab built at a cost of Rs. 1.43 crore with 75% funding from the Centre and 25% from the State has been housed at the Pathology Block.

Inaugurating the new lab yesterday, MP Pratap Simha said that the lab was second of its kind in the State after Bengaluru. He further said that the maintenance of the lab for the next five years would be by the Central Government. He added that the lab is monitored by a doctor and four technicians.

MLA Vasu, MMC&RI Dean and Director Dr. B. Krishnamurthy, Chief Administrative Officer B.G. Indiramma, DHO Dr. B. Basavaraju and others were present.

Introspect before criticising

Reacting on the misbehaviour of senior Kodagu Congress leader T.P. Ramesh at Independence Day function in Madikeri, Pratap Simha speaking to reporters said that Congress leaders should introspect themselves before criticising others. He added that CM Siddharamaiah delivers sermons to others but instead should ask his colleagues and others to introspect themselves first.