FAQs

As of right now, RT-PCR is the most accurate diagnostic test that is available to the public. This diagnostic method uses specific primers to target the SARS-CoV-2 virus using a nasal or oral sample. There are various other types of diagnostic tests, which we have explored within our website (see Emerging Diagnostics Page) that are still being researched and improved upon to increase the accuracy of these tests. See the research page for a comprehensive table.

To improve RT-PCR, there have been studies conducted that focus on targeting a specific gene on the SARS-CoV-2 genome to increase specificity and sensitvity of the test. By targeting a gene that is specific to the SARS-CoV-2 genome, this will allow for the reduction of false positive tests that detect a different virus that shares a similar gene to SARS-CoV-2. An article that goes more in-depth on this can be found here.

The nasal swab is the most commonly used method for sample testing, but there have been many studies researching the effectiveness of the saliva sample tests. Many of these studies have claimed that saliva tests have higher sensitivity and consistency, with the knowledge that the COVID-19 virus is spread through the saliva particles from human to human. Moreover, saliva samples are determined to be a safer and easier way of sample testing for this virus. Although most studies favor the saliva test as a result of their data, this research is fairly new and still has various factors that must be considered before qualifying saliva sample testing as more accurate.

It is not effective to get tested right after you were exposed to someone who is infected because this would be before the viral load woudl be high enough to detect. In this case you should wait about three or four days to get tested in order to make sure your test is as accurate as possible.

It would be more efficient to increase the availability of rapid point of care testing because this will allow for individuals to more readily and easily receive a test. This will give the general public more of an incentive to receive tests since it will be easier and more readily available.

If we were developing a new product, we would choose RT-LAMP. This is for a for a few reasons: it is isothermal (so it does not require the extensive use of lab equipment), it is much faster than RT-PCR, and visual detection is possible due to its high product yield.

We would have made testing sites more available and efficient for individuals to receive. Getting tested is the first step to containing this virus because it is vital to know whether you have been infected in order to reduce the spread of the disease. If tests were more available and easier to access then more individuals would receive tests and essentially lower the infection rates.