Sydney: Researchers at University of Melbourne, Australia have developed a new test kit that can diagnose COVID-19 within 20 minutes.
The researchers said that the rapid molecular test called N1-STOP-LAMP is 100 per cent accurate in diagnosing samples containing SARS-CoV-2 at high loads.
The test is also easy to use, making it a prime candidate settings with limited testing capabilities, the researchers added.
The findings were published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, news agency IANS reported.
“STOP-LAMP is what’s referred to as a ‘near care’ test. However, it’s not intended to replace the current gold standard PCR testing,” said study lead author Professor Tim Stinear.
“It’s a robust diagnostic test for the specific and rapid detection of COVID-19. But it’s important to note, however, it trades some detection sensitivity for speed and ease-of-use,” he added.
“The test requires a small shoebox-sized machine, as well as reagents, but everything is portable. We see this kind of technology having a benefit in settings liked aged care facilities or overseas laboratories with limited resources and equipment,” Stinear said.
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