A tailored test method could eliminate the need to take uncomfortable nasal samples, reduce costs and increase the mobility of tests used to detect the coronavirus, says Beaumont Health of Metro Detroit, whose researchers developed the test methods.
Dr. Laura Lamb and Dr. Michael Chancellor, researchers at Beaumont Health, developed a test technique to detect COVID-19 in less than 45 minutes using urine, blood, saliva or swab samples, Royal’s Beaumont Health said. Oak in a statement released Wednesday, July 1. .
Doctors developed technology for rapid tests for the Zika virus almost three years ago and applied the methods for use in COVID-19 tests.
“Compared to existing technology,” study results using the methods have been “highly accurate” and “relatively inexpensive to develop and operate,” Beaumont Health said in a statement.
“We need more testing options if we are to organize a successful public health response to COVID-19,” said Lamb. “This is a quick test that does not require expensive machinery to operate and the materials for it are relatively inexpensive. The more options we have to try, the better. “
Currently, the majority of COVID-19 test samples are collected in the field (a doctor’s office or one of over 300 designated test sites in Michigan) and sent to a laboratory for machine analysis generally faces.
The collection involves the patient tilting the head back and receiving the almost six-inch-long collection lance, which looks like an unfortunately long Q-tip, through the nose.
Related: Website allows residents to find free COVID-19 test sites
Once inside the nostril, the collector tilts the swab forward and pushes it approximately three inches toward the brain stem, stopping when the tip hits the pharynx, the part of the airway that connects the nose to the throat.
The test swab is packaged and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Helix Diagnostics in Waterford, an MLive lab that it visited in April, said the test requires two machines and usually takes at least five hours. Realistically, the change from receiving the sample to communicating the results could take two to three days.
The Beaumont Health test method can be mobile and uses less expensive laboratory testing equipment, Beaumont Health spokeswoman Maryann Macleod said.
“Could be used for detection at the point of risk, such as nursing homes, long-term care facilities, cruise ships, naval ships, within school and prison systems, and by large employers, for example, in an Amazon warehouse or meat packing plant. ” Lamb said. “Because this is an existing test, we are optimistic with the right resources, it could be ready for widespread use in about a month.”
Chancellor said the next step in expanding the use of the method involves securing corporate financing.
A study and explanation of testing methods was released for peer review on June 12.
Since the coronavirus pandemic hit Michigan, more than 1 million diagnostic tests have been administered, according to state data.
Based on previous recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, Michigan has set a goal of conducting 30,000 coronavirus tests per day.
COVID-19 PREVENTION TIPS
In addition to washing their hands regularly and not touching their faces, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone can carry the virus.
Health officials say you should stay at least 6 feet away from others and work from home, if possible.
Use sanitizing wipes or sanitizing spray cleaners on frequently touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and bring hand sanitizer when you go to places like stores.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also issued an executive order requiring people to cover their faces with their mouths and nose inside closed public spaces.
Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
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