Twenty-six false positives in BGI laboratory incident

Among 30 samples tested preliminary positive at the BGI Group laboratory, 26 cases are found to be false positive, according to the Department of Health.

Those listed as close contacts of the 26 are now released from compulsory quarantine gradually. 

For the remaining four cases, three were confirmed with Covid-19 while the test results of the last case has yet to be confirmed.

Earlier a suspected cross-contamination took place at the BGI Group laboratory, resulting in 30 preliminary positive cases last Thursday. 

The facility was later inspected by government advisor Yuen Kwok-yung, who discovered that cross-contamination took place at the lab. The batch containing 30 Covid-19 test samples were contaminated by the first two samples, which were tested positive. 

Samples were then sent to hospital for more accurate testing. Twenty seven cases were found to be preliminary negative after a second test. 

Yesterday the Food and Health Bureau suspended the mobile sampling station services provided by the BGI Group. They also said they would not rule out using less testing services provided by the Group. 

The government also replied that they have requested the Group to conduct an in-depth investigation. A third party examination will also be performed by an independent organization to ensure the investigation is professional and not biased.