RSCI: PCR Test Using Saliva Almost As Effective At Covid Detection As Nose & Throat Swab.

Wednesday, 8 September 2021 10:35

The findings could lead improve capacity and result in greater testing uptake

A PCR test using just saliva has been found to be almost as effective at detecting Covid-19 as a nose and throat swab.

New research from the Royal College of Surgeons says 94 percent of the positive nose and throat samples it tested also turned up positive on the saliva test.

While 96 percent of those that tested negative on the nose and throat swab also tested negative on the saliva test.

The university says the findings could lead improve capacity and result in greater testing uptake in those who require regular screening.

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