Sydney, Aug 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) In an ongoing fight against the novel coronavirus, the researchers have developed a new test that can diagnose Covid-19 in just 20 minutes.
The findings, published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, show the rapid molecular test called N1-STOP-LAMP, is 100 per cent accurate in diagnosing samples containing SARS-CoV-2 at high loads.
"STOP-LAMP is what's referred to as a 'near care' test, it is not intended to replace the current gold standard PCR testing," said study lead author Tim Stinear, Professor at the University of Melbourne in Australia.
"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.
According to the researchers, the test is highly accurate and easy to use, making it a prime candidate for use in settings with limited testing capabilities.
The method involves using a small portable machine, which can reliably detect SARS-CoV-2 from just one nasal swab.
In the race to control the Covid-19 pandemic, access to rapid, precision diagnostics is key, the research team said.
"We have developed an alternative Covid-19 molecular test that can be readily deployed in settings where access to standard laboratory testing is limited or where ultra-rapid result turnaround times are needed," said Stiner.
The study revealed that this new test uses only one tube and involves only a single step, making it more efficient and lower cost than many of the current tests for SARS-CoV-2.
The N1-STOP-LAMP method was found to be 100 per cent accurate and correctly identified 87 per cent of tests as positive when used to assess 157 confirmed-positive samples.
The results were fast, with an average time-to-positive of 14 minutes for 93 of those clinical samples.
"We see this kind of technology having a benefit in settings liked aged care facilities or overseas laboratories with limited resources and equipment," Professor Stinear said.
"The test requires a small shoebox-sized machine, as well as reagents, but everything is portable," he noted.
Source: IANS
About Gopi
Gopi Adusumilli is a Programmer. He is the editor of SocialNews.XYZ and President of AGK Fire Inc.
He enjoys designing websites, developing mobile applications and publishing news articles on current events from various authenticated news sources.
When it comes to writing he likes to write about current world politics and Indian Movies. His future plans include developing SocialNews.XYZ into a News website that has no bias or judgment towards any.
He can be reached at gopi@socialnews.xyz