In the face of the coronavairus pandemic, a British DNA testing laboratory has shifted gears and is using its facilities to produce coronavirus testing kits instead. The simple test can be carried out practically anywhere, so there's no need to visit a hospital or send samples away for analysis. All that's needed is a single drop of blood acquired via a finger-prick, and the test will produce a positive or negative result in around 15 minutes. The tests are still in production and can be pre-ordered.
How does is work?
The test is described as a "rapid antibody test". Instead of detecting the virus directly, it instead looks for two of the antibodies associated with COVID-19 - Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and Immunoglobulin G (IgG). If IgM is detected in the patient's blood, it suggests that they have only recently been exposed to the virus, whereas the presence of IgG suggests a later stage of infection. The manufacturers claim that the test can pick an infection before any symptoms appear.
Protecting workers
Although any member of the public can purchase a test, the makers expect that most sales will come from businesses and other organisations who wish to test their staff. Many industries are showing signs of strain as they struggle to keep their employees safe, healthy and in work.
A company spokesperson said:
“Recent studies suggest that a high percentage of patients show no clinical symptoms, which is why the spread of coronavirus is creating major logistical and operational problems for businesses, with no way of predicting how long the pandemic will last or the impact it will have.
“Human resources teams are having to deal with the physical and emotional concerns of their staff while continuing to perform their duties in this climate of uncertainty.
“Immediate results are essential if employees need to be isolated or quarantined.”
For more information & support
If you believe you have caught coronavirus, do not go to see a doctor or visit a hospital. Stay at home and read the advice on the NHS website.