Tired of having Q-tips stuck up your nose? Israel's BATM Advanced Communications Limited has launched a new molecular COVID-19 diagnostics kit that uses self-collected saliva samples, the company announced Thursday.
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The new kit consists of reagents that have been developed to accurately detect SARS-CoV-2 in saliva samples that are collected by an individual chewing a cotton ball for 30 seconds and then spitting it (or spitting directly) into a small plastic collector tube (a Salivette).
The reagents are based on the Group's existing COVID-19 antigen kit that tests samples collected via swabbing the upper (via the nose) and middle parts of the throat or fluid from the lungs, and which has five (4+1) gene discovery capability to enable detection even with a very low viral load. The company reports that its new test kits is 100% accurate for both specificity and sensitivity. This new kit, which is CE certified, is able to detect all known variants of COVID-19, including in people who are asymptomatic.
According to BATM, the new method significantly improves the sample collection process compared with existing swabbing methods while maintaining diagnostic accuracy using the RT-PCR technique.
BATM's new kit reduces processing time by eliminating the RNA extraction phase required for the existing swabbing methods. The new test can be executed by standard PCR equipment at a rate of 150-180 tests per hour.
Dr. Zvi Marom, CEO of BATM said the company was "extremely proud" to have launched the new test kit that eliminates the need for swabbing.
"Despite the excellent progress that has been made with vaccinations, we believe that COVID-19 will be with us for quite some time, so solutions such as our new saliva test will be invaluable for providing the ongoing testing required in places where people gather, such as schools and leisure venues," Marom said.
Marom added that BATM has already seen interest in its new product from cruise lines and professional sports teams who see it as a way back to a "more normal life."
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