New device gives COVID-19 test results in just 30 seconds

Medical staff take samples for COVID-19 testing for people in New York City, USA – Photo: REUTERS

Scientists at the University of Florida (USA) have just invented a device that can give accurate SARS-CoV-2 virus test results in just 30 seconds. This device is considered very convenient when taking COVID-19 screening samples at large events or airports.

The team says the device produces test results comparable to PCR tests, which are conducted only in a laboratory and can take up to 24 hours or days to produce results. Not only that, this device also helps to save costs.

The device for testing saliva samples taken with a test strip is similar to that used for testing glucose, but with a different chemistry. This test strip will then give a signal to the semiconductor device and give a result within 30 seconds.

In studies with human samples, scientists say the accuracy rate of this device is up to 90% – equivalent to the accuracy of a PCR test and higher than rapid test kits, which often take longer than normal. It takes about 10-15 minutes to get the results.

The scientists believe the small battery-powered machine could be used to detect potential health risks of varying degrees, such as cancer or heart attacks, and could in particular help cut testing costs. in the medical industry.

Not only that, this sensor device is considered to have great potential, even completely improving the way disease testing has been applied up to now.

Currently, University of Florida researchers are collaborating with other researchers at Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan (China) and have a license agreement with Houndstoothe Analytics Company in New Jersey to produce products. export the above device. They are waiting for approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).