Staff test nucleic acid samples at the lab. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]

The First People's Hospital of Chongqing Liangjiang New Area -- in southwestern Chongqing municipality -- recently completed the construction of a nucleic acid test lab which has already been put into use, according to hospital officials.

They said the lab will increase efficiency in screening suspected cases and reduce the risk of infection for testers.

As one of Chongqing's designated hospitals for treatment of the novel coronavirus pneumonia, the hospital took seven days to install the nucleic acid testing system, which can provide testing reports in two hours.

The lab is divided into three areas for reagent preparations, specimen handling and product amplification testing, officials said.

Every testing area is equipped with a transitional area for staff to change clothes and covers, as well as maintain a one-way air flow.

All staff are required to wear special protective clothes, gloves, goggles, masks and hats before entering the lab.

According to the hospital, nucleic acid testing is more accurate than computer tomography diagnosis. Officials said it will contribute to the prevention and control of the virus outbreak.