THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Despite the state government confirming community transmission of COVID-19 in Poonthura and Pulluvila, the health department has decreased the number of antigen tests in the coastal areas. The reason for this is the availability of antigen test kits, which is below 1000 now. Antigen tests should not be avoided when the number of cases increases by the day.

The massive transmission in the coastal areas in Thiruvananthapuram was identified through antigen tests. On Saturday, only 27 persons were subjected to antigen tests while the number is 50 in Karakulam panchayat which includes Pulluvila.

The health department said that arrangements will be made for more kits and tests will begin from Sunday itself. Currently, coastal areas are under complete lockdown. The government is implementing measures to curb COVID-19 by dividing the area into three zones.