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Pooling of samples for SARS-CoV-2 detection using rapid antigen tests

Salcedo, N.; Harmon, A.; Herrera, B. B.

2021-05-13 infectious diseases
10.1101/2021.02.09.21250610 medRxiv
Show abstract

While molecular assays, such as RT-PCR, have been widely used throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the technique is costly and resource intensive. As a means to reduce costs and increase diagnostic efficiency, pooled testing for RT-PCR has been implemented. However, pooling samples for antigen testing has not been evaluated. We propose a pooling strategy for antigen testing that would significantly expand SARS-CoV-2 surveillance, especially for low-to-middle income countries, schools, and workplaces. Our data demonstrate that combining of up to 20 nasal swab specimens per pool can expand surveillance with antigen tests, even if a pool contains only one positive sample.

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