Roche Diagnostics has launched a rapid antigen nasal test in the UK, with millions of kits available immediately to help businesses and organisations looking to reopen as lockdown restrictions are lifted.
The SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test Nasal can be carried out easily at the point of care to detect if someone has an active infection, providing results 15 minutes after sampling.
The test works by collecting a sample from the front area of the nose instead of the nasopharynx (the upper part of the nose where it meets the throat), resulting in a simplified and faster testing procedure. This testing method can help to reduce patient discomfort, particularly in sensitive individuals such as children, elderly people and/or people with disabilities.
Besides being less invasive, the nasal test also provides patients with the option to self-collect their sample under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Through reduced physical contact, this method of testing can help to decrease the risk of exposure to the virus for healthcare professionals.
Roche obtained a CE mark for the test at the beginning of February, which means it conforms to quality and safety standards. The test is now available across the UK, and can help to provide additional support for sectors including sport, education, leisure and the creative industries.